Belgium announced it back in 2023, and since January 1, 2026 it is a fact: electronic invoicing (e-invoicing) is mandatory for B2B transactions between Belgian companies. Concretely: no more paper invoices or loose PDFs between companies, but structured electronic invoices via PEPPOL. That is the secure European network over which invoices travel directly from your software to your customer's, without email or manual entry.
In this article you will read why the government took that step, what it brings you and how to get compliant quickly if you have not done so yet.
Why did the government make electronic invoicing mandatory?
Less fraud, more accurate VAT collection
The measure mainly aims to reduce the VAT gap: the difference between the VAT the government expects and what it actually collects. Structured electronic invoices are easier to check, which makes fighting fraud more efficient.
Less administration
In addition, the government aims for administrative simplification. Invoices arrive directly in the recipient's accounting software, without retyping. That saves time for the government and for companies.
What does this mean for your company?
Advantages
- Automation: manual entry and paper filing are a thing of the past, invoices arrive directly in your accounting.
- Cost savings: no more need for paper, ink or stamps.
- Faster payment: electronic invoices reach your customer immediately, so you get paid sooner.
Challenges
- Implementation cost: switching to a new system requires a one-time investment.
- Training: your team has to learn the new way of invoicing.
How do you set up electronic invoicing in Odoo?
Several systems can help you make the switch. Odoo is one of the most versatile: PEPPOL is built into the accounting module as standard. You register your company on the network, and from then on you send and receive electronic invoices without an extra intermediary. With Odoo's One App Free plan you can even use that accounting module, and therefore electronic invoicing too, for free.
You can read how your entire accounting runs in Odoo, from CODA to VAT return, on accounting with Odoo. Practical points to check before you set up e-invoicing are in our PEPPOL tips.
Do you work with deposits on crates, bottles or cases? Then there is one more point to consider: read how Odoo keeps improving the way it handles returnable packaging on PEPPOL invoices.
Not compliant yet? Here is how to tackle it
The obligation is now a fact, but not every company has caught up. If you still send PDFs by email today, your invoices do not meet the legal requirements. The good news: the switch does not have to be a months-long project.
Start with your invoicing software. If it supports PEPPOL, it is often a matter of activating and registering. If your current package has not caught up, this is a good time to look at one platform that brings invoicing and accounting together, instead of adding yet another separate tool.
Do you want to be sure your invoicing is fully compliant? Schedule a no-obligation introductory call: no sales pitch, just concrete answers to your situation.
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