Apply for a VAT ID number
Applying for a VAT identification number (VAT ID) from the Federal Central Tax Office for cross-border transactions within the EU.
How to proceed
- 1
Submit an application to the Federal Central Tax Office (BZSt)
Online at www.bzst.de using your tax ID number and tax office information.
- 2
Receive VAT ID number
Starts with 'DE' and 9 digits.
- 3
Include this information on invoices and on the website
Requirement for invoices involving tax-exempt intra-Community supplies.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 1 weeks
Official: max. approx. 2 weeks
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • VAT ID number confused with tax ID number
- • Application filed with the tax office instead of the BZSt
Common reasons for rejection
- • No VAT registration on file
- • The small business exemption applies
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Businesses that supply or purchase goods or services from other businesses within the EU (B2B).
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 1 weeks
Success rate
approx. 98.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •VAT ID number confused with tax ID number
- •Application filed with the tax office instead of the BZSt
Common reasons for rejection
- •No VAT registration on file
- •The small business exemption applies
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.