Fiscal representation is an arrangement where a foreign business appoints a local representative to handle tax and compliance obligations in a country where the business is not physically established. It is most commonly used for VAT, import, and cross-border trade compliance. A fiscal representative may help with VAT registration, tax filings, import documentation, payment of duties or taxes, and communication with local tax authorities. This is especially important for companies selling goods into another country, importing inventory, or using local warehousing without having a registered local entity. In many countries, fiscal representation helps non-resident businesses legally trade, import, store, or sell goods while meeting local tax rules.
- Required in some EU countries for non-EU businesses importing goods and selling locally
- The fiscal representative takes joint liability for VAT obligations in many EU member states
- Allows foreign businesses to import into and trade within EU countries without establishing a local legal entity
- Different from a customs agent: fiscal representation is specifically for VAT compliance
Related terms: VAT Number, EORI, Customs Clearance, Importer of Record.
