VAT rates in Germany (2026)
Current VAT rates, registration thresholds, and e-invoicing requirements for Germany.
Standard rate
19%
Reduced rates
Registration threshold
€22,000
E-invoicing
Last updated: January 1, 2026
VAT rates in neighboring countries
| Standard rate | Reduced rates | E-invoicing | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denmark | 25% | — | Mandatory |
| Poland | 23% | 8%, 5% | Mandatory |
| Czech Republic | 21% | 12% | Voluntary |
| Austria | 20% | 13%, 10% | Voluntary |
| France | 20% | 10%, 5.5% | Planned |
| Luxembourg | 17% | 14%, 8% | Voluntary |
| Belgium | 21% | 12%, 6% | Planned |
| Netherlands | 21% | 9% | Voluntary |
Frequently asked questions about VAT in Germany
When was the VAT rate last changed in Germany?
VAT rates in Germany are reviewed regularly by the national government. The current standard rate of 19% has been in effect since the last official update. Check the European Commission VAT database for historical rate changes.
Do I need to register for VAT in Germany?
If you exceed the VAT registration threshold in Germany, you must register for VAT. For cross-border B2B services, you may need to register depending on the type of supply and whether the reverse charge mechanism applies.
What about reverse charge for cross-border sales to Germany?
If you sell services to a VAT-registered business in Germany, you typically apply the reverse charge mechanism. The buyer accounts for VAT instead of you. This applies to most B2B services within the EU.
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