The Spanish government has decided to postpone the mandatory implementation of the Verifactu system for small businesses and self-employed individuals. Now, companies and freelancers will be able to switch to the digital invoicing system only from 2027. This decision was made after discussions with business representatives and political groups, who insisted on the need for additional time to adapt.
Verifactu is a specialized software developed by the tax authorities that is set to completely overhaul the invoicing process. The system aims to ensure transparency and control over all financial transactions, as well as simplify interaction with tax authorities. Previously, the new regulations were expected to take effect in 2026, but now the timeline has been pushed back by a year.
Reasons for the delay
According to government representatives, the decision to postpone is due to the low level of readiness among companies to switch to the new system. According to the latest data, only 8% of small businesses and freelancers have already implemented Verifactu, with another 15% currently in the process of transitioning. The remaining market participants are not yet prepared for such significant changes.
Authorities note that implementing Verifactu requires not only technical upgrades, but also staff training and changes to internal business processes. For many small companies, this has proven to be a serious challenge. Therefore, it was decided to give businesses more time to prepare and to avoid widespread fines for failing to meet the new requirements.
What will change for businesses
The Verifactu system requires the mandatory use of certified invoicing software. This will allow the tax authorities to receive information about each transaction almost in real time. All invoices must be issued in a single standardized format, making oversight easier and reducing the risk of errors or fraud.
Violations of the new rules can result in significant fines—up to 50,000 euros. However, authorities emphasize that the goal of the reform is not punishment, but to increase transparency and improve business efficiency. The transition to digital reporting is expected to speed up settlements between partners and help lower market debt levels.
Entrepreneurs’ reactions
Business association leaders have welcomed the decision to postpone. According to them, the extra year will allow companies to prepare for the new requirements without rushing and avoid unnecessary costs. Many entrepreneurs note that going digital is an inevitable step, but believe it should happen gradually and take into account the market’s real capacities.
The delay is considered especially important by small business owners and freelancers, for whom adopting new technologies means added costs and the need to overhaul established processes. They hope that in the meantime, more affordable solutions and government support will become available.
Political context
The postponement of Verifactu implementation was the result of negotiations between the government and business representatives, as well as political parties, particularly Catalan entrepreneurs and the Junts party. Authorities emphasize their willingness to engage with businesses and take their needs into account when implementing digital reforms.
In the coming months, additional support measures are expected to be developed for companies transitioning to the new system. The authorities have pledged to streamline software certification and organize training programs for employees.
The future of digital reporting
Experts believe that the introduction of Verifactu will not affect the current tax system, but will enable tax authorities to obtain more comprehensive information about the income of companies and entrepreneurs. This is expected to reduce outstanding debts and speed up settlements between market participants.
Overall, the transition to digital reporting is seen as an important step toward modernizing the Spanish economy. However, the successful implementation of the reform hinges on close cooperation between the government and businesses, as well as allowing sufficient time for adaptation.
