How to use a VAT number validator
Choose a mode, enter a VAT number, and read the result below the input. The page checks the country prefix, expected structure and length, then applies a checksum for countries with an implemented rule. It shows the normalized number, country details, checksum status and failure reasons. The check runs in your browser, and the code makes no request containing the entered value.
- Choose Single Number and enter a value in VAT number.
- Open Bulk Numbers and paste values into Bulk VAT numbers, one per line or separated by commas.
- Read the status, country, checksum result and reasons below the input.
- In Bulk Numbers, select Copy CSV or Download CSV when you need the result list as CSV.
What a VAT format checker checks
Before it checks a country rule, the validator trims the input, removes spaces, dots, dashes and underscores, and uppercases letters. For example:
DE 136.695-976
→ DE136695976
→ Germany, Valid format, Checksum: PassesAfter cleanup, the first two characters must be a recognized VAT prefix. The remaining characters must match that country's pattern and length. A symbol left after cleanup causes an allowed-characters failure. An unknown prefix gets its own reason, and an empty input gets the reason "Empty input."
Checksum rules are implemented for Austria, Belgium, Germany, Denmark, Finland, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal and Sweden. Other recognized prefixes receive structure and length checks only. Greece uses EL, and Northern Ireland uses XI.
How bulk VAT number validation reads a list
Bulk VAT numbers are split at line breaks and commas. Each non-empty item is trimmed and checked separately, so one list can contain both one-per-line and comma-separated values. Blank entries are skipped. The results table shows VAT number, Country, Checksum, Status and Reasons for each item.
A record can show Valid format when its structure matches and its country has no implemented checksum. The reason says that structure was checked only. A checksum can also show Not evaluated when the country rule cannot evaluate a candidate, such as a French number with a non-numeric key.
Why a valid VAT format is not registration proof
Valid format means the prefix and structure passed, along with the checksum when a rule applies. It does not confirm that the number is issued, active or registered. When the country is known and the structure matches, the result shows Check registration on VIES for a separate registration lookup.
What the result shows
- Single Number shows Normalized VAT number, Allowed characters, Country code, Country, Local identifier, Structure matches country and Checksum.
- When a check fails, Reasons lists the specific failure, such as an unknown prefix, a structure mismatch or a failed checksum.
- Bulk Numbers puts the same checks into rows and enables Copy CSV and Download CSV after it has results to export.
When another data validator fits better
Use Data Validation Tools to choose a validator by data type. This page is for VAT prefixes, country patterns and VAT checksums. Choose IBAN Validator for an IBAN and its MOD-97 checksum, Email Validator for email syntax and domain rules, or Postal Code Validator for a postal or ZIP code tied to a selected country or region.
Frequently asked questions
Does a valid VAT number pass a registration check?
No. A valid result confirms format and any applicable checksum. It does not check registration or active tax status.
Which VAT numbers get a checksum check?
Austria, Belgium, Germany, Denmark, Finland, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal and Sweden have checksum rules here. Other recognized prefixes receive structure and length checks only.
Can I validate VAT numbers with spaces or dots?
Yes. Spaces, dots, dashes and underscores are removed, letters are uppercased, and the result shows the normalized number.
How do I validate a bulk VAT number list?
Open Bulk Numbers, paste the list into Bulk VAT numbers, and separate entries with line breaks or commas. Review each row, then select Copy CSV or Download CSV.