Definition
VAT (Value-Added Tax) is a consumption tax applied to goods and services at different stages of production and distribution. Businesses generally charge VAT on their sales and may recover VAT paid on eligible business purchases, depending on the applicable local rules.
For companies operating internationally, VAT obligations can arise when importing goods, selling products locally, storing inventory in another country, or supplying certain services across borders. Registration requirements, VAT rates, reporting obligations, and invoicing rules vary from one jurisdiction to another.
Foreign companies may therefore need to obtain a local VAT number before carrying out certain transactions. In some countries, a non-established business may also be required to appoint a fiscal representative or local tax agent.
VAT compliance typically includes issuing compliant invoices, filing periodic VAT returns, reporting intra-community transactions where applicable, and paying any VAT due to the relevant tax authority.
ASC Consulting supports international companies with VAT registration, fiscal representation, compliance, and cross-border tax obligations across multiple jurisdictions in Europe and Asia.
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