The Croatian Ministry of Finance has made a formal request to the European Union (EU) for a derogation to implement mandatory business-to-business (B2B) e-invoicing across the country, starting from 1 January 2026. This request is part of the “Fiscalization 2.0” project initiated by the Croatian Tax Administration, which aims to introduce a new system for e-invoicing, e-archiving, and online bookkeeping. The Ministry of Finance has approached the European Commission to obtain this derogation, which would enable Croatia to enforce mandatory B2B e-invoicing and digital reporting for domestic transactions.
The move towards mandatory B2B e-invoicing is in line with the global trend of digital transformation in financial processes. E-invoicing offers numerous benefits, such as increased efficiency, cost savings, reduced errors, and improved transparency. By implementing this system, Croatia aims to streamline its invoicing and reporting procedures, making it easier for businesses to comply with tax regulations and reducing the administrative burden.
The Croatian Tax Administration’s “Fiscalization 2.0” project aims to modernize the country’s tax system by digitalizing various processes. In addition to mandatory B2B e-invoicing, the project also includes the implementation of e-archiving and online bookkeeping. These measures will enable businesses to store and access their financial records electronically, eliminating the need for physical paperwork and reducing the risk of document loss or damage.
By requesting a derogation from the EU, Croatia seeks to align its tax system with the changing landscape of digital finance. The European Commission will review the request and assess its compatibility with EU regulations. If approved, Croatia will join other EU member states that have already implemented mandatory B2B e-invoicing, such as Italy and Spain.
The introduction of mandatory B2B e-invoicing in Croatia will have significant implications for businesses operating in the country. Companies will need to adapt their invoicing processes to comply with the new requirements, ensuring that their invoices are generated and transmitted electronically. This shift may require investments in new software or IT infrastructure, as well as training for employees to familiarize themselves with the new system.
However, the benefits of mandatory B2B e-invoicing outweigh the challenges. Businesses can expect improved efficiency in their invoicing and reporting processes, leading to faster payment cycles and reduced administrative costs. Moreover, e-invoicing promotes transparency and reduces the risk of fraud, as electronic invoices leave a digital trail that can be easily audited.
The Croatian Ministry of Finance’s request for a derogation reflects the government’s commitment to embracing digital technologies and fostering economic growth. By implementing mandatory B2B e-invoicing, Croatia aims to create a more business-friendly environment, attracting investment and stimulating innovation. The move also aligns with the EU’s broader agenda of digital transformation and harmonization of tax systems across member states.
In conclusion, Croatia’s Ministry of Finance has formally requested a derogation from the EU to implement mandatory B2B e-invoicing nationwide, starting from 1 January 2026. This request is part of the “Fiscalization 2.0” project, which aims to modernize the country’s tax system through the introduction of e-invoicing, e-archiving, and online bookkeeping. If approved, this move will bring Croatia in line with other EU member states that have already embraced mandatory B2B e-invoicing. While businesses will need to adapt to the new requirements, the benefits of e-invoicing, such as increased efficiency and transparency, make it a worthwhile transition.
