The Commission presented a proposal to introduce a standard VAT return throughout the EU with the aim of reducing burdens on businesses, particularly SMEs. The VAT directive (2006/112/EC) has been identified as an area of EU legislation most burdensome for SMEs, and the VAT declaration in particular. The proposal addresses issues related to the content, the submission process and corrections of the standard VAT return. It also encourages electronic filing.

Based on article 113 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the directive requires unanimity for adoption by the Council, after consulting the European Parliament. The Council’s working group is expected to start examining the proposal in December.