Verifactu and Mandatory E-Invoicing: Key Aspects of Spain’s Digital Tax Transformation

E-invoicing in Spain is evolving fast. In this article, we break down the Verifactu system and mandatory e-invoicing: how they work, deadlines, technical requirements and the associated penalties.

Verifactu and Mandatory E-Invoicing: Key Aspects of Spain’s Digital Tax Transformation

Spain’s fiscal and business ecosystem is undergoing a digital transformation with two major regulations: the Anti-Fraud Law and the Create and Grow Law. These introduce major changes to invoicing systems, aiming to enhance tax control and improve administrative efficiency in B2B relations.

 

What is Verifactu?

Verifactu is a system developed under Law 11/2021 (Anti-Fraud Law) and regulated by Royal Decree 1007/2023. Its goal is to ensure the integrity, traceability, and immutability of invoicing data. It sets technical requirements for invoicing software used by companies and freelancers.

 

Main features of Verifactu

  • Certified software: Invoices must be issued through compliant software.

  • Mandatory QR code: All invoices must include a QR code for validation.

  • Event logging: Systems must track each invoice’s full history and status.

  • Real-time submission: Invoices must be automatically sent to the Spanish Tax Agency at the time of issue.
     

Implementation deadlines

  • January 1, 2026: Mandatory for corporate taxpayers.

  • July 1, 2026: Mandatory for individuals and freelancers.

  • July 29, 2025: Deadline for software providers to adapt their systems.
     

What is mandatory e-invoicing?

Regulated under Law 18/2022 (Create and Grow Law), this measure requires electronic invoices for B2B transactions to reduce late payments and increase transparency.

 

Key requirements

  • Structured format: Must allow automated processing.

  • Advanced electronic signature: Must include a recognized certificate.

  • 4-year storage: Must be kept in accessible electronic format.

  • System interoperability: Platforms must be able to exchange invoices.
     

Implementation timeline

  • Businesses billing over €8M/year: 1 year from publication of the regulation.

  • All other businesses and freelancers: 2 years from the same date.
     

Penalty system

Failure to comply can result in significant fines:

Verifactu

  • Up to €50,000 for using unapproved invoicing systems.

  • Up to €150,000 for software providers not meeting legal specs.
     

E-invoicing

  • Up to €10,000 for companies that do not issue B2B e-invoices or deny client access.
     

Business adaptation

Implementing Verifactu and e-invoicing requires careful planning, system upgrades, and investment in compliant technology. At Valero Tax Legal, we offer tailored support to help you meet all legal obligations with confidence.