Route: How it's structured
How VAT identification numbers are structured
EU VAT IDs commonly include a two-letter country code followed by a national number format. The exact length and pattern depend on the Member State.
Typical components
- Country prefix: usually two letters (example: “PT”, “FR”, “DE”).
- National identifier body: digits and, in some cases, letters, defined by national rules.
- Checksum or control logic: some systems use internal checks to reduce entry mistakes (varies by country).
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Neutral examples (format only)
The examples below illustrate formatting patterns only. They are not real checks and do not imply validity.
| Example | Meaning (format only) |
|---|---|
| PT 123456789 | “PT” prefix + 9 digits (example pattern) |
| FR AB123456789 | “FR” prefix + letters/digits (example pattern) |
| DE 123456789 | “DE” prefix + 9 digits (example pattern) |
Common misunderstandings
- A VAT ID format matching a pattern does not mean the number is registered.
- Country prefixes indicate jurisdiction, not a guarantee of tax status.
- Some countries have multiple identifiers that are not the same thing.
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