Belgium’s FPS Finance has released version 1.08 of the Registered Cash Register System (RCRS) Technical Specifications, refining the API protocol between the Fiscal Data Module (FDM) and FinCloud. The update introduces new data elements, security adjustments, and guidance on message size limits, enhancing accuracy, reliability, and compliance in electronic fiscal data reporting for the HoReCa sector.
Update of technical documentation in Belgium related to GKS 2.0 solutions: API protocol between FDM and FIN-Cloud
Public
Belgium
Author: Tara Nedeljković
Category:
Fiscal subject related
Views:
979
Content accuracy validation date:
26.08.2025
Content accuracy validation time:
13:40h
The Technical Document on Registered Cash Register System (RCRS) – Technical Specifications concerning requirements for communication between FDM and FIN-Cloud has been updated with version 1.08, published on the FPS Finance website.
This new version marks additional development of the API protocol between the Fiscal Data Module (FDM) and FinCloud (FPS Finance). The document serves as a guide for manufacturers that want to develop FDM solutions for the Belgian market. Over the past year, the specification has gone through multiple refinements, starting with the initial version in May 2024.
The most recent v1.08 update introduced changes based on live testing feedback. Notably, three new data elements – vatNo, estNo, and protocolVersion – have been added, affecting multiple sections of the mentioned specification. These changes ensure that financial data exchange is more accurate and precise with other regulations. Another added improvement is the inclusion of an important note on message size limitations in section 12.1, which will help manufacturers avoid technical issues in real-world implementations. Additionally, sections 12.3.2 and 12.5.5.7 received adjustments regarding the handling of the shared secret, further reinforcing system security. All transactions processed through registered cash register systems in the HoReCa sector that fall under fiscalization must be transmitted electronically to FPS Finance.
By improving the protocol, authorities gain a more reliable communication process between FDM and FPS Finance, which will influence horizontal monitoring and targeted tax audits. Each revision of the protocol has responded to technical and operational feedback, with v1.08 representing the most detailed set of improvements in this regard.
Other news from Belgium
Belgium defines final deadlines for hospitality sector fiscal cash register upgrades
Public
Belgium
Author: Nikolina Basić
Belgium
Author: Nikolina Basić
Belgium has confirmed final deadlines for hospitality businesses to upgrade to GKS 2.0 fiscal cash register systems, with the tolerance period ending on 31 March 2026 and stricter enforcement starting from April 2026. A final transition window extends into June 2026 for new installations, after which businesses must comply or demonstrate active migration, as part of a phased rollout through 2028.... Read more
Tolerance period postponed once again to June 2026 for GKS 2.0 compliance
Belgium
Author: Tara Nedeljković
Belgium has extended the grace period for mandatory implementation of the GKS 2.0 certified POS system until 30 June 2026 due to insufficient system availability, allowing businesses to choose between early adoption, registration, or temporary use of GKS 1.0. Read more
Subscribe to get access to the latest news, documents, webinars and educations.
Already subscriber? Login
Deadlines in Belgium for GKS 2.0 Implementation Remain in Effect
Public
Belgium
Author: Tara Nedeljković
Belgium
Author: Tara Nedeljković
During this period, affected businesses can either adopt GKS 2.0 early, register and wait for hardware, or temporarily use GKS 1.0 to remain compliant without changing the legal deadlines. The Belgian tax authority, FPS Finance, reminds stakeholders that the deadlines for the mandatory installation of the certified cash register system GKS 2.0 remain unchanged, despite ongoing developments and tem... Read more
Belgium Introduces New VAT Provision Account from May 2026
Belgium
Author: Tara Nedeljković
Belgium will introduce a new VAT provision account system starting May 1, 2026, replacing the current VAT account as part of a broader tax administration modernization reform. Read more
Subscribe to get access to the latest news, documents, webinars and educations.
Already subscriber? Login
Belgium Postpones Controversial Takeaway Meal VAT Rate Increase
Belgium
Author: Tara Nedeljković
Belgium introduced several VAT changes from March 2026 to strengthen public finances, including confirmed increases such as raising VAT on hotels, campsites, and furnished accommodation from 6% to 12% and increasing VAT on pesticides to 21%. Read more
Subscribe to get access to the latest news, documents, webinars and educations.
Already subscriber? Login
New education was created: Educational videos for Belgium
Belgium
Author: Tara Nedeljković
This video series provides a comprehensive overview of Belgian fiscalization, starting with the legal framework, scope, and the hardware-software fiscalization model applied in practice. It explains the operation of cash register systems (including GKS 2.0), the Fiscal Data Module, communication with tax authorities, and the distinction between fiscal and non-fiscal receipts. Read more
Subscribe to get access to the latest news, documents, webinars and educations.
Already subscriber? Login
Belgium’s Move to Mandatory B2B E-Invoicing: What Businesses Need to Know?
Belgium
Author: Tara Nedeljković
Belgium has entered a new phase of VAT digitalisation with mandatory structured B2B e-invoicing effective from January 1, 2026, replacing paper and PDF invoices for domestic transactions. To support implementation, the tax authorities have introduced a three-month tolerance period until March 31, 2026, during which penalties are eased for businesses that can demonstrate timely and genuine efforts to comply, although the legal obligation itself is already in force. Read more
Subscribe to get access to the latest news, documents, webinars and educations.
Already subscriber? Login