Electronic invoicing in Austria
Overview of the legal framework accepted formats, and the operation of electronic invoicing in Austria, with a focus on the mandatory use in the public sector and the role of the eRechnung.gv.at platform.
Characteristics of Electronic Invoicing in Austria
Austria has followed the European model of gradual electronic invoicing adoption. Since 2014, e-invoicing has been mandatory in transactions with central public administrations, and since 2020, this obligation has been extended to federal states and municipal administrations. Suppliers working with these entities must issue their invoices electronically, contributing to the digitalization of public procurement.
In the private sector (B2B), the use of e-invoicing remains voluntary, although many companies have adopted it for its efficiency and process automation benefits.
Austria does not have a single platform for all public administrations. The central government receives invoices through the eRechnung.gv.at portal, while federal states and municipal authorities may choose between this platform, the Peppol network, or their own e-invoice reception systems.
Mandatory Use
Electronic invoicing is mandatory for:
- Central public administrations, federal states, and municipal administrations (for invoice reception).
- Federal administration suppliers (for invoice issuance).
In the private sector, e-invoicing may be used voluntarily, provided that the recipient agrees.
Prerequisites
Companies wishing to issue e-invoices to the public sector must register and configure their connection with eRechnung.gv.at or the Peppolnetwork through an authorized service provider.
Invoice Workflow
Electronic invoices sent to the public sector can be transmitted:
- Through eRechnung.gv.at, which is connected to the Unternehmensserviceportal (USP).
- Via the Peppol network, ensuring international interoperability.
Invoice Format
- ebInterface (national format)
- PEPPOL BIS
Both formats meet the legal and technical requirements for electronic invoicing in the Austrian public sector
Electronic Signature
Austrian regulations do not require the use of an electronic signature for invoices issued to either the public or private sector.
Invoice Archiving
Electronic invoices must be retained for a minimum period of seven years, plus an additional year in specific cases, in accordance with fiscal and commercial legislation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a central platform for submitting electronic invoices to Austrian public administrations?
Yes. The central government uses the eRechnung.gv.at portal as the main reception point. Public administrations at the federal and municipal levels may use this platform, the Peppol network, or their own systems.
What is eRechnung.gv.at?
It is the central government’s e-invoice reception portal in Austria. Integrated with the Unternehmensserviceportal (USP), it allows suppliers to send invoices securely and in compliance with legal standards.
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