Vies Registration and its application
Patrick2023-09-23T10:30:14+00:00The Intra-Community Operator Registration ROI or the Vat information exchange system VIES registration is a European procedure aimed at facilitating commercial operations within the EU. Its application can be complex in some cases, but for many companies it is a very profitable opportunity, since it allows exporting to any country in the European Union. The VIEs is the ROI in spanish.
What is the Vies Register?
The VIEs Register is a system used by the European Union (EU) to control and facilitate trade transactions between companies in different Member States. Companies that carry out intra-Community transactions, either buying goods or services from other Member States or selling them, must register in this register in order to obtain an identification number known as an Intra-Community Tax Identification Number (TIN).
This VIEs Vat is essential for several reasons:
- It facilitates identification: When doing business within the EU, companies can verify the validity and authenticity of the number provided by their counterparties using the European Commission’s VIES (VAT Information Exchange System) database. This ensures transparency and confidence in transactions.
- VAT exemptions: Supplies of goods or services between companies registered in different EU Member States are exempt from VAT in the country of origin, as this tax is self-liquidated in the country of destination by the receiving company.
- Reporting obligations: Companies with an Intra-EU TIN usually have to file regular returns (such as the Intrastat model) to report their intra-EU transactions.
It is essential for companies operating in the EU to understand and comply with the regulations related to the Intra-EU Trader Registration, to ensure legal transactions and proper tax compliance.
How to apply for Vies Registration from Spain?
In Spain, the Intra-Community Operator’s Register is linked to the Tax Identification Number (NIF). If a company wishes to carry out intra-Community operations, it must apply for inclusion in the Register of Intra-Community Operators (ROI) in order to obtain an intra-Community NIF-VAT. Below, we detail the steps to apply for it:
- Census registration: If you have not yet started your economic activity, when you register in the census of business people, professionals and withholders (using form 036 or 037) you can apply for registration in the ROI by ticking the corresponding box. If you are already registered, you must file a census declaration of modification.
- Documentation: In addition to form 036 or 037, the Tax Agency may require you to provide documentation that accredits your intention to carry out intra-Community transactions, such as contracts, orders, pro forma invoices or any other commercial document.
- Verification: The Tax Agency, upon receipt of the application, may carry out verification actions before proceeding with the registration in the ROI. This may include a visit to the applicant’s tax domicile.
Intra-Community Tax - Identification Number (NIF): Once registered in the ROI, you will be assigned an intra-Community NIF-IVA, which is the NIF preceded by the code ES, i.e. ESXXXXXXXX. You must use this identifier in all your intra-Community transactions.
- VIES enquiries: It is advisable to check your registration in the VIES system (VAT Information Exchange System) to ensure that everything is correct and that your customers and suppliers can check your status as an intra-Community operator.
- Subsequent obligations: Once registered, you will be obliged to file information returns (form 349) on your intra-Community transactions and, if you exceed certain thresholds, also the Intrastat declaration.
It is essential to keep up to date on the obligations and responsibilities associated with this intra-Community permit, to ensure proper compliance with tax regulations.
What are the benefits of ROI or VIES?
Community Trader Registration allows Spanish companies, and Community companies in general, to access the following advantages:
- VAT exempt transactions: Companies can purchase goods and services from other Member States without having to pay VAT in the country of origin. VAT is self-liquidated in the country of destination, i.e. the acquiring company manages and pays the corresponding VAT in its own country.
- Validity verification: Through VIES, businesses can confirm the authenticity and validity of the VAT numbers of their trading partners in other Member States.
- Competitiveness: Facilitates trade and trade expansion within the EU, as intra-EU transactions become smoother and simpler.
- Regulatory compliance: By being registered, companies comply with European tax regulations, avoiding possible sanctions.
The Community Operator Registration is, therefore, a fundamental tool for companies seeking to efficiently integrate into the European single market.
If you want to obtain the ROI for your business and you want to do it immediately, and with all the legal guarantees, at Asesoría Orihuela Costa we offer you the advice you need. Contact our team and get the financial, administrative and legal basis you need to grow your business.