Governments across the world are accelerating their digital transformation efforts, and mandatory e‑invoicing is becoming a central part of that shift. The coming years will bring some of the most significant changes yet, affecting how businesses issue, exchange, and store VAT invoices across borders. Below is a clear overview of what’s happening in key markets – with a special focus on the UK – and what organisations should prioritise as they prepare.

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The UK: moving to mandatory e‑invoicing from April 2029

The UK Government has officially confirmed that all VAT invoices must be issued electronically from April 2029.

This marks a major shift from today’s voluntary model. According to the consultation response published with the 2025 Budget, the government will work closely with industry, software providers, and tax bodies throughout 2026 to define the technical and legal framework. 

Early indications suggest the UK will adopt a Peppol‑based four‑corner model, with interoperability at the centre of the design. A phased rollout is likely, starting with larger taxpayers.

This change aligns the UK with broader global initiatives such as the EU’s VAT in the Digital Age (ViDA) programme.

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Belgium: B2B e‑invoicing becomes mandatory in 2026

Belgium has taken a leading role in Europe with its decision to mandate structured B2B e‑invoicing from 1 January 2026, using the Peppol BIS standard and EN 16931 formats.

All Belgian VAT‑registered entities must issue and receive machine‑readable invoices via the Peppol network, with PDFs no longer recognised as valid invoices. This change is part of Belgium’s long‑term effort to reduce its VAT gap and modernise tax workflows.

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UAE: phased rollout beginning in 2026

The UAE is also preparing a national e‑invoicing mandate, with a phased approach starting July 2026. The country is adopting a Peppol‑based five‑corner model, supported by Accredited Service Providers who will validate, transmit, and report structured XML invoices.

Full compliance for early‑in‑scope taxpayers begins in January 2027, with all remaining VAT‑registered businesses included by mid‑2027.

This marks one of the most significant digital tax transformations in the region.

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A global trend: over 30 new mandates coming

Tungsten Automation notes that at least 30 additional e‑invoicing obligations are expected to come into effect worldwide over the next few years, as countries modernise their tax systems and strengthen compliance frameworks.

For businesses operating internationally, this means compliance can no longer be addressed country by country — systems must be flexible enough to support different formats, networks, and validation requirements.

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What businesses should do now

No matter the country, successful preparation includes:

• Reviewing ERP, billing, and finance systems for structured e‑invoice readiness
• Preparing for Peppol‑based transmission models
• Strengthening master data quality
• Planning around archiving and legal retention rules
• Coordinating with suppliers and customers to ensure interoperability
• Staying aligned with evolving timelines and technical specifications

Whether you operate only in the UK or across multiple jurisdictions, early preparation reduces risk, prevents operational disruption, and positions your business for a smoother transition.

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Need help preparing for the upcoming mandates?

Our DAS team is here to support you.

👉 Get in touch with us to ensure your business is ready for the next era of e‑invoicing