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What's Peppol?

Learn about the international e-document exchange network that's becoming standard for B2B transactions.

Written by Maxime

Peppol is an international network that lets organizations exchange standardized e-invoices and other business documents. Originally created for public procurement in Europe, it’s now widely used for secure and efficient business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) transactions in Belgium and beyond, ensuring compliance with both local and international regulations.

New Belgian e-invoicing requirements

Starting January 1st, 2026, Belgian law requires all B2B invoices to be exchanged electronically. This means:

  • Paper invoices will no longer be accepted.

  • PDF invoices sent by email will not be compliant.

  • All businesses must be able to send and receive structured electronic invoices.

  • Peppol is the default and recommended network for this exchange.

How Banqup makes you compliant

As a certified Peppol access point, Banqup provides everything you need to comply with the new requirements:

For sending invoices

  • Create and send structured e-invoices through Peppol.

  • Convert your existing invoices into compliant formats.

  • Ensure your invoices reach any business partner on the network.

  • Track delivery and processing status.

For receiving invoices

  • Automatically receive and process incoming e-invoices.

  • Convert incoming documents into readable formats.

  • Organize and store invoices digitally.

  • Maintain compliance with retention requirements.

Getting started with Banqup

  1. Set up your Banqup account

  2. Configure your Peppol Profile

  3. Start sending and receiving compliant e-invoices

  4. Manage all your invoices in one place

FAQ

When do I need to be ready?

The requirement starts January 1st, 2026. We recommend implementing e-invoicing early to avoid last-minute pressure and ensure a smooth transition.

Does this affect all Belgian businesses?

Yes, all VAT-registered businesses in Belgium must comply with this requirement.

What happens if I don't comply?

Non-compliance may result in penalties, and your business partners may no longer be able to accept your invoices.

Do I need additional software besides Banqup?

No, Banqup provides all the necessary tools to send and receive Peppol-compliant invoices.

Can I send e-invoices to foreign companies through Peppol?

Yes. Peppol is an international network, so you can send invoices to any organization that has a Peppol ID regardless of country (as long as Peppol is supported in that country). However, if the company is not registered on Peppol, it won't be possible and a traditional invoice will have to be used.

Does the January 2026 mandate apply to my international clients (e.g., in France or the Netherlands)?

No. The mandatory use of structured e-invoicing starting January 2026 applies only to transactions between Belgian B2B and B2G entities. For international clients, you can continue to send invoices via email or PDF as you do now. However, if a foreign client is on the Peppol network, you can still choose to send them an e-invoice through Banqup.

My business is in a 0% VAT sector (e.g., travel). Am I exempt?

No. Every B2B transaction is subject to the mandate, even if the VAT rate is 0%. Banqup allows you to select 0% or "Exempt" VAT regimes while still delivering the required structured file.

I am a General Practitioner or work for a non-profit (VZW/ASBL). Am I required to use Peppol?

This depends on your VAT status. In general, if you are fully exempt from VAT under Article 44, you may not be required to send e-invoices, but you must still be able to receive them for your business expenses via Peppol if you have a CBE/enterprise number. Mixed non-profits must use Peppol for B2B sales. We recommend consulting your accountant to confirm your specific status.

Next steps

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