EU VAT number checker (VIES), with UK numbers checked by HMRC
Check that a customer's or supplier's VAT number is valid before invoicing them. Type the number with its country code: EU numbers are checked in VIES, UK numbers with HMRC.
Enter a VAT number, then click Check.
Source: VIES, the European Commission's VAT number check
How the check works
Type the VAT number with its two-letter country code (DE, FR, IE, ES…; EL for Greece). For Austria, Belgium, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Spain, the tool first checks the national format; for France, it checks the key against the SIREN number.
The number is then checked in VIES, the European Commission's system, which asks the national tax authority whether the number is active for trade between EU countries. When the authority shares them, VIES also returns the registered name and address.
UK numbers (GB + 9 or 12 digits) are not in VIES: the tool checks their format, then asks HMRC. Northern Ireland businesses trading goods with the EU use XI numbers, which are in VIES.
Only VIES (or HMRC) can say whether a number is active. A correct format is not proof of registration.
- Nothing you type is stored by Le Frac.
Official sources
Rules checked on 20 October 2026. Free tool for information only: it is not legal or tax advice. The rules are checked against the official sources listed on this page; check your own situation before acting.
Frequently asked questions
VIES says the number is not valid: what does that mean?
The number may not exist, may have been cancelled, or may not be registered for trade between EU countries. Ask your customer to confirm it.
Why is the name not shown?
Some tax authorities do not share the name and address through VIES. The result still tells you whether the number is active.
Can I check a UK VAT number?
Yes. GB numbers are checked with HMRC, since VIES does not cover them; Northern Ireland XI numbers are checked in VIES.
What is the country code for Greece?
EL, not GR, for VAT numbers.
Further reading
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