New e-invoicing grace period announced in Belgium
A significant update has been published for Belgian SMEs and accountants regarding the mandatory B2B e-invoicing obligation. While the requirement officially starts on January 1st 2026, the Minister of Finance announced a grace period in December 2025. This change offers a practical buffer, but it is important to understand that the legal obligation itself remains unchanged.
What changes on January 1st 2026?
The mandatory B2B e-invoicing obligation in Belgium officially begins for businesses on January 1st 2026. This means businesses must be ready to send and receive invoices electronically via a structured network, specifically the PEPPOL network. The goal is a standardised, fully digital invoicing process across the country.
Newly announced grace period for the e-invoicing obligation
In december, the Minister of Finance announced an e-invoicing grace period, intended as a transitional phase for businesses. This grace period runs until the end of March 2026.
The grace period does not postpone the e-invoicing obligation; it remains in force from January 1st, 2026. The tolerance relates to the imposition of administrative fines. During this three-month window, no administrative fines will be imposed, provided that businesses can demonstrate they have taken all timely and reasonable measures to comply, but that, for example, certain software was not supplied.
What businesses should do now
Businesses should view the grace period as a final, valuable opportunity to ensure full compliance, rather than a delay of the obligation. Start preparing today:
Choose the right software: Ensure you select the right software to send and receive your e-invoices. The chosen solution must be reliable and fully PEPPOL-compatible.
Register on the PEPPOL network: Immediately activate your connection to the PEPPOL network. This allows your partners (customers or suppliers) to find you and send invoices via the network to you.
Document your preparations: Because the grace period requires you to have taken "timely and reasonable" preparatory steps, it is essential to document all steps you undertake.
How Banqup helps you get ready
At Banqup, we want to make your transition to mandatory e-invoicing as easy as possible. We ensure you meet the requirements of the new law without complexity.
E-invoicing via the PEPPOL network: Instantly send and receive structured e-invoices via the required PEPPOL network, guaranteeing compliance from day one.
Complete onboarding: Set up your business quickly and start issuing compliant invoices immediately. This allows you to use the grace period for testing, not panic.
Integrations with accounting tools: Seamlessly connect Banqup with your existing accounting or ERP systems. This minimises disruption to your current workflows.
Compliance Updates & Support: Access a platform that stays up-to-date with the latest Belgian regulatory changes, supported by a professional team.
Don't wait until the grace period expires to become compliant. The obligation starts on 1 January 2026, and Banqup offers the clear, action-oriented e-invoicing solution you need today to be fully prepared.
