2026 E-Invoicing Wave in Europe: Key Countries and Deadlines

Europe is entering a new era of tax compliance. In 2026, mandatory B2B e-invoicing becomes reality for millions of businesses. Paper and PDF invoices are being replaced by structured, validated electronic invoices, driven by the EU’s VAT in the Digital Age (ViDA) initiative. 

For companies operating in Europe, 2026 is the year when e-invoicing shifts from preparation to legal obligation. 

Why 2026 Is a Turning Point 

ViDA allows EU member states to introduce mandatory e-invoicing and real-time reporting systems to reduce VAT fraud and close the VAT gap. Several countries are moving simultaneously, making 2026 the most important milestone so far. 

The key message is simple: B2B invoicing in Europe is becoming structured, digital, and monitored in near real time. 

Countries Going Live in 2026 

Poland – February 1, 2026 

• Model: Clearance 

• System: KSeF (single national platform) 

• All B2B invoices must be submitted to KSeF and approved before becoming legally valid. 

• Structured XML is mandatory. 

Croatia – July 1, 2026 

• Model: Hybrid 

• System: Peppol + national fiscalization 

• Invoices are exchanged via Peppol and simultaneously reported to the tax authority. 

• Builds on Croatia’s long-standing fiscalization system. 

France – Starting September 1, 2026 

• Model: Clearance via certified platforms (PDPs) 

• All companies must be able to receive e-invoices in 2026. 

• Large companies must start issuing e-invoices first, with SMEs following in 2027. 

Belgium – Expected Q3/Q4 2026 

• Model: Post-audit 

• System: Peppol network 

• Mandatory B2B e-invoicing using Peppol BIS Billing 3.0. 

• No government clearance, but structured data is required. 

2026 Overview at a Glance 

What This Means for Businesses 

• PDF invoices will no longer be sufficient 

• Structured formats (UBL, CII, EN 16931) become mandatory 

• Validation happens automatically and in real time 

• Multi-country businesses must handle different technical models at once 

Starting late increases cost and risk. Early preparation allows smoother implementation and better control over compliance. 

Bottom Line 

2026 marks the point where e-invoicing becomes unavoidable across Europe. Poland, Croatia, France, and Belgium are leading the next wave, and more countries will follow. 

E-invoicing is no longer a future plan. It is a legal requirement. 

How Melasoft Supports This Transition 

With extensive experience in European e-invoicing mandates, Melasoft supports businesses through this transition using both SAP Add-On solutions and all-in-one e-invoicing platforms. 

• For SAP users, Melasoft’s SAP Add-On integrates directly into existing ERP processes, enabling compliant e-invoicing without disrupting daily operations. 

• For companies using different ERP or accounting systems, Melasoft’s all-in-one e-invoicing solution provides a centralized platform covering multiple countries, formats, and regulatory models. 

By supporting clearance systems, Peppol-based networks, and multi-country compliance, Melasoft helps businesses prepare early, reduce implementation risk, and stay compliant as regulations evolve. 

The 2026 wave is approaching fast. The right technology partner makes the difference between last-minute compliance and a smooth, scalable transition.