On 1 January 2025, Belgium introduced the so-called 'VAT Chain,' which aims to fundamentally transform various aspects of Belgian VAT compliance.
While the Belgian VAT Authorities have previously been relatively lenient with (limited) late filing of VAT returns, the provisions of the VAT Chain may now result in:
- ‘Substitute VAT returns’ being drafted by the Authorities;
- penalties for late or non-filing; or
- denial of the company’s right to request the refund of the VAT credit for the respective reporting period. As taxable persons must, among other requirements, have timely filed all VAT returns during the six months preceding a specific reporting period to be allowed to request the refund of the corresponding VAT credit through the periodic VAT return, late filing will equally negatively impact the company’s right to request future VAT refunds.
For a full overview of the currently known implications, please consult this page.