Home Foreign businesses The Dutch VAT number: format, check and how to get one
The Dutch VAT number: format, check and how to get one
A Dutch VAT identification number starts with NL, followed by nine digits, the letter B and two check digits. Here is what it is used for, how to check one, and how a Dutch or foreign company gets one.
Need a Dutch VAT number?
For a foreign company we prepare and file the registration, with all follow-up until the number is issued.
What it looks like
The Dutch VAT identification number has this format: NL, nine digits, the letter B and two check digits, for example NL000099998857. It goes on your invoices, website and letters, and it is the number your customers and suppliers in other EU countries use.
VAT ID and VAT tax number
Since 1 January 2020 sole traders have a VAT identification number that is not based on their citizen service number. For the VAT return and other contact with the Dutch tax authorities they keep a separate number, the VAT tax number (omzetbelastingnummer).
Checking a VAT number
You can check a VAT number from any EU country in VIES, the European Commission's online service. Save or print the result as proof of your check, for example for a zero-rated supply to a business customer in another EU country.
How a company gets one
- A Dutch BV (private limited company) or another legal entity registered with the KVK (the Dutch Chamber of Commerce): the KVK passes its details to the Dutch tax authorities, which decides on the registration and issues the VAT number
- A sole trader in the Netherlands: the KVK registration also counts as the registration with the Dutch tax authorities
- A company established abroad: the Registration form Foreign companies, sent to the Dutch tax authorities in Heerlen
What we do
For a foreign company we prepare the registration and send the form with a covering letter by registered post to the Dutch tax authorities: € 275, everything included. For a business established in the Netherlands the VAT registration is € 175.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check whether a Dutch VAT number is valid?
In VIES, the European Commission's online check. It shows whether the number is valid, and you can keep the result as proof.
Is a VAT number the same as an EORI number?
No. The EORI number is for customs, the VAT number for VAT. A company that imports and sells in the Netherlands usually needs both.
How long does a registration take?
That depends on the Dutch tax authorities and on any questions they ask. We follow up until the number is issued, at no extra cost.
Need a Dutch VAT number? Tell us where your company is established.
Tell us briefly what is going on. Within one working day you hear what we can do for you and what it costs, before we start.
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