Step 1: get the enterprise number
Here are both steps, the case of small businesses and side activities, and how to stop.
A sole trader registers at a recognised enterprise counter. The counter checks the access conditions (in Wallonia and Brussels, basic business management knowledge is required), charges a registration fee of about a hundred euros and gives the enterprise number at once. You must also join a social insurance fund.
For a company, the notary files the deed of incorporation: the company then receives its enterprise number, with nothing more to do.
Step 2: activate VAT
The enterprise number only becomes a VAT number once VAT is activated, with form 604A. You can leave it to the enterprise counter, for a fee, or do it yourself for free online on MyMinfin. The VAT number is active from the date given in the application. The table sums up the path:
| Step | Where | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Registration | A recognised enterprise counter (sole trader) or the notary (company) | The 10-digit enterprise number |
| 2. VAT activation | The counter, or yourself online with form 604A | The VAT number: BE and the enterprise number |
| 3. Stopping | Form 604C, within a month of the end of the activity | The VAT number is deactivated |
Small businesses and side activities
A business whose yearly turnover does not exceed 25,000 euros can choose the small business exemption: it charges no VAT and files no periodic returns, but it still has a VAT number, which goes on its invoices.
A side activity follows the same path as a main one: registration, then VAT activation. It often uses the small business exemption.
Stopping your VAT number
When the activity stops, file form 604C within the following month, at the counter or online. The enterprise number stays the same: it will never be given to another business.
Check the number you receive
Once VAT is activated, check that the number is recognised for trade within the Union: enter it in the tool at the top of this page. To find the number of another Belgian business, type its name in the Belgian company search.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Belgian VAT number cost?+
Activating VAT is free if you do it yourself online. Registering a sole trader at an enterprise counter costs about a hundred euros.
Are the enterprise number and the VAT number the same?+
Yes: the VAT number is the enterprise number with BE in front. But it is only active once VAT is activated.
Do I need a VAT number for a side activity?+
Yes, the steps are the same. Under 25,000 euros of yearly turnover, the small business exemption means you charge no VAT.
How do I stop a Belgian VAT number?+
With form 604C, filed within a month of the end of the activity, at the counter or online.
Keep reading
- VATCheck a Belgian VAT number (BE + 10 digits)BE + 10 digits, the first 0 or 1: the format, frequent errors, the official check and what to do when it is invalid.
- BELGIUMBelgian enterprise number: format and how to check it10 digits starting with 0 or 1, the link with Belgian VAT, establishment units and how to check it.
- VATInvalid, unverifiable or unregistered VAT number: what to doWrong number, service unavailable or number not registered: the effect on the VAT exemption and what to do.
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