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EU Commission Portal Launched for the Cross-Border SME Scheme

Following the introduction of the new EU small business regime on January 1, 2025, the European Commission has launched a dedicated portal to assist SMEs in navigating cross-border VAT exemptions. The site provides guidance, identification tools, and country-specific information.

VAT Regulation
EU Commission Portal Launched for the Cross-Border SME Scheme

Key Information on the SME Portal

1. The New EU SME Scheme

Since January 2025, EU-based small businesses can apply for VAT exemptions not only in their home country but also in other EU member states, provided they remain below the relevant turnover thresholds.

2. Portal Features and Tools

The EU Commission’s new information hub currently offers:

  • SME-on-the-web: A digital tool to verify small business identification numbers.
  • Comprehensive Guidelines: Detailed documents and guides explaining the requirements and consequences of the new regime (available in multiple languages, including German).
  • Regulatory Overviews: Presentations of small business regulations across different member states.

3. Current Limitations

The portal is still a work in progress:

  • Missing Features: A "simulator" tool to help businesses assess their eligibility is not yet available.
  • Incomplete Data: Information regarding specific regulations in some member states is still being finalized.
  • Language: Much of the core website content is currently only available in English or via machine translation.

4. Legal Note

The guidelines and tools provided on the portal are informative but not legally binding. They serve as a resource and do not replace professional tax advice.