Italy has been a pioneering country in the implementation of mandatory electronic invoicing between companies, even serving as an example and inspiration to other countries in Europe. It has adopted a robust approach that has been reflected in large benefits for the State, with a collection of 3.5 billion euros in the first year of its application and in a more digitalized and efficient business network.
Mandatory e-Invoicing in Italy
From the January 1, 2019, Italy made electronic invoicing mandatory for business-to-business (B2B), business-to-consumer (B2C - if the customer/consumer asks for it) and for the public sector (B2G). This measure was implemented, like other countries, on the one hand, to reduce tax evasion and, on the other, to modernize billing processes.
Electronic Invoicing in Italy: How does it work?
Invoice Model and Report: Centralized. All invoices must be sent to Exchange System (SdI), supervised by the Italian tax agency, Agenzia delle Entrate.
E-Invoice format in Italy: FatturaPA (XML), stipulated by the Italian authorities.
Substitute Archiving: process for the digital preservation of documents, ensuring their fiscal and legal validity over time. It is particularly important for companies that manage large volumes of documents or invoices. It consists of two conditions:
- Qualified electronic signature: the invoice must be digitally signed to guarantee its authenticity. This service is normally provided by a qualified service provider. In this way, the digital signature is as legal as the handwritten signature in all European Union countries. Remember that at Brait we have an electronic signature connector, Brait Signer, which guarantees full compliance and security.
- Timestamp (electronic time stamping): certifies the exact time at which the document was signed and kept, guaranteeing the integrity and authenticity of the data.
Shipping via the SdI: The signed file is sent to the Exchange System, which validates the invoice and verifies that it meets the requirements.
Reception and notification: The SdI transmits the invoice to the final recipient and sends a delivery notification to the issuer.
Archiving time: 10 years, with the guarantee that the data is accessible and verifiable.
Other requirements and characteristics of electronic invoicing in Italy
- All companies and freelancers resident or registered in Italy.
- International transactions, although with some exceptions and specific procedures.
E-Invoicing in Italy with SAP
At Brait, we offer innovative solutions to facilitate the management of electronic invoicing in SAP with our Invictia connector.
One of the great advantages of our connector is that it guarantees global regulatory compliance and compliance with the fiscal and technical requirements of each country, including Italy. In addition, integrates with central authorities such as the SdI in Italy, Chorus Pro in France, FaceB2B in Spain, or KSeF in Poland.
Contact us to find out how we can help optimize your business operations!
