How to invoice foreign clients from Spain

If your business is based in Spain, you may invoice clients in the UK, EU or beyond. The invoice may look similar, but the tax treatment can change depending on where the client is and what you are selling.

The basic idea: Spanish business, foreign client

When you invoice from Spain to a client in another country, the key question is: should IVA apply? The answer depends on the client's location, whether they are a business or individual, and the type of service.

EU business clients

For B2B services to clients in EU countries, the reverse charge mechanism usually applies. This means your invoice shows 0% IVA and the client accounts for VAT in their own country. You include a note on the invoice referencing the reverse charge. Your gestor can confirm the exact wording required.

UK clients (post-Brexit)

The UK is no longer in the EU. For services to UK businesses, the treatment depends on the type of service. Many professional services follow similar rules to EU — the client accounts for UK VAT. But get confirmation from your gestor for your specific services.

Non-EU clients

For services to clients outside the EU, IVA is generally not charged on most professional services. The invoice shows 0% IVA. However, the rules vary by service type.

Why client tax numbers matter

For EU business clients, you need their VAT number (equivalent of NIF/CIF) to apply the reverse charge correctly. Always ask for it before invoicing.

What to ask your gestor

Tell your gestor: where your clients are based, whether they are businesses or individuals, and what service you are providing. Do this before you start invoicing internationally — it is easier to get the setup right from the start than to correct past invoices.

How BillBee helps

BillBee stores client details including their country and tax number, and lets you set the correct IVA treatment per invoice. It also generates invoices in English, which is useful for international clients.