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International••By Bilto Team

Invoice Formats by Country: Global Guide


Invoice Formats by Country: Global Guide


Different countries have different requirements for invoice formats. Understanding these requirements is essential for international business and compliance.


United States


Requirements:

  • Sales Tax (varies by state)
  • Tax ID (EIN) if applicable
  • Date format: MM/DD/YYYY
  • Currency: USD ($)

    • Key Features:

  • State-specific sales tax rates
  • No federal sales tax
  • Tax ID required for businesses

    • United Kingdom


    Requirements:

  • VAT Number (if VAT registered)
  • VAT rate and amount
  • Date format: DD/MM/YYYY
  • Currency: GBP (£)

    • Key Features:

  • VAT registration required if turnover exceeds £85,000
  • Standard VAT rate: 20%
  • Must show VAT separately

    • India


    Requirements:

  • GSTIN (GST Identification Number)
  • GST rate and amount
  • CGST and SGST breakdown (intra-state)
  • IGST (inter-state)
  • Date format: DD/MM/YYYY
  • Currency: INR (₹)

    • Key Features:

  • GST registration required if turnover exceeds ₹20 lakh
  • Multiple GST rates (5%, 12%, 18%, 28%)
  • HSN/SAC codes required

    • European Union


    Requirements:

  • VAT Number
  • VAT rate and amount
  • Date format: DD/MM/YYYY
  • Currency: EUR (€)

    • Key Features:

  • VAT rates vary by country (17-27%)
  • Registration thresholds vary by country
  • Cross-border transactions have special rules

    • Australia


    Requirements:

  • ABN (Australian Business Number)
  • GST amount (if applicable)
  • Date format: DD/MM/YYYY
  • Currency: AUD (A$)

    • Key Features:

  • GST registration required if turnover exceeds $75,000
  • Standard GST rate: 10%
  • Some items are GST-free

    • Singapore


    Requirements:

  • GST registration number (if GST registered)
  • GST rate and amount
  • Date format: DD/MM/YYYY
  • Currency: SGD (S$)

    • Key Features:

  • GST registration required if turnover exceeds S$1 million
  • Standard GST rate: 9%
  • Some goods and services are zero-rated

    • Common Elements Across Countries


    While requirements vary, most invoices should include:


  • **Business Information**: Name, address, contact details
  • **Client Information**: Name and address
  • **Invoice Number**: Unique identifier
  • **Date**: Invoice date and due date
  • **Description**: Details of goods or services
  • **Amounts**: Quantities, prices, totals
  • **Taxes**: Applicable tax information
  • **Payment Terms**: How and when to pay

    • Tips for International Invoicing


  • **Research Requirements**: Understand local requirements before invoicing
  • **Use Proper Currency**: Invoice in the correct currency
  • **Include Tax Information**: Ensure all required tax fields are present
  • **Consider Exchange Rates**: For international clients, consider currency conversion
  • **Consult Professionals**: For complex situations, consult tax professionals

    • Conclusion


    Understanding country-specific invoice requirements is crucial for international business. Using the right format ensures compliance and helps avoid payment delays or legal issues.


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