Global VAT & Indirect Tax News

Slovakia will expand its special method of tax payment from 1 January 2027, allowing tax authorities to mandate split payments when there is a reasonable concern a supplier will not remit VAT. The new rule requires customers to pay the VAT directly to the tax authority and imposes penalties equal to the full VAT amount for non‑compliance. It is part of Act No. 385/2025 Coll. and aligns with the 2027 e‑invoicing mandate.

The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) has revealed that one in three of its VAT fraud investigations involve Slovakia, highlighting the country as a major transit point for criminal money flows. The report estimates VAT fraud costs the EU €50 billion annually and notes that tax fraud up to €20,000 is no longer a criminal offence in Slovakia.

The Slovak Financial Administration released Guide No. 1/DPH/2026/I on January 14, 2026, outlining amendments to the VAT Act. Key provisions include mandatory electronic invoicing for domestic supplies from 1 January 2027 to 30 June 2030 and an option for the tax office to require customers to pay VAT directly to the tax administrator’s account if a supplier is suspected of non‑payment. The guidance applies to all Slovak taxpayers engaged in domestic supply of goods and services.

Slovakia will implement several VAT and tax changes from 1 January 2026, including removing the reduced 19% rate for processed foods high in salt or sugar, expanding the 5% reduced rate to certain printed media, exempting individuals from the financial transaction tax, and introducing a 0.0125% monthly special levy on pension and collective investment companies.

Slovakia’s Financial Administration has released accreditation requirements for digital postmen and announced a mandatory e‑invoicing mandate for domestic taxpayers from 1 January 2027, expanding to cross‑border transactions on 1 July 2030. The draft law requires e‑invoices in the EN16931 format and allows voluntary testing with certified providers starting spring 2026.