Italian VAT registration

What are the Italian VAT registration thresholds?

As with most EU countries, there is no Italian VAT registration threshold for non-resident traders. A VAT registration, if required, is due prior to the provision of any supplies. It is important to follow this requirement as the recovery of back-dated input VAT is difficult in Italy. If the supplies are the sale of goods over the internet, then there is a distance sales VAT registration threshold of €35,000 per annum.

Is an Italian fiscal representative or agent required?

The Italian authorities require non-EU businesses to appoint a fiscal representative that is jointly liable for any VAT due. Most EU companies use a local VAT agent since the compliance and reporting requirements in Italy are cumbersome. For example, payments of VAT due can be complicated if not done in Italy.

What information is required to get an Italian VAT number and registration?

Companies requiring a valid Italian VAT registration

VAT certificate
Memorandum and Articles of Association.
Latest audited company accounts
Registration for intra-community supplies and VIES registration
Industry classification form
Declaration that the company does not have a permanent establishment in Italy
Letter of Authority for the legal/tax representative of the company, plus signed passport photo

Where are Italian VAT registrations submitted?

To secure an Italian VAT number, foreign entities must submit their application to the local tax office of the company’s legal agent.

There will be fines for late registration if taxable supplies have already been provided, and potentially interest charges on any late VAT.

What is the format of an Italian VAT number?

Upon being granted an Italian registration, a VAT number will be issued. Italy, like all EU countries, has a standard format, as follows:

Italian Number Format

Country Code	IT
Format	12345678901
Characters	11 characters
Notes

The initial seven numbers refers to the tax payer, and the following two digits identify the tax office. An Italian prefix, IT, is added for the purposes of recording intra-community supplies. Italian VAT numbers can be verified through the VIES system.

What next?

After obtaining an Italian VAT number, companies may provide taxable goods and services. They must follow all of the legal requirements for trading, Italian VAT Compliance, and submit regular monthly / quarterly and annual declarations, Italian VAT returns.

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Need a fiscal representative in Italy?

Non-EU businesses selling in Italy will need to appoint a fiscal representative alongside completing VAT registration and returns.
Fiscal representatives are responsible for the accurate VAT submissions of their non-EU clients.
Avalara offers a Fiscal Representative Service as part of its international VAT and GST Registration and Returns Service.

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Need help with your UK VAT compliance?

Researching U.K. VAT legislation is the first step to understanding your VAT obligations. Avalara can help your business comply with U.K. VAT requirements and manage your obligations, regardless of your business size or type.

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Italian VAT registration

What are the Italian VAT registration thresholds?

Is an Italian fiscal representative or agent required?

What information is required to get an Italian VAT number and registration?

Where are Italian VAT registrations submitted?

What is the format of an Italian VAT number?

Italian Number Format

What next?

Need a fiscal representative in Italy?

Need help with your UK VAT compliance?

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