In a significant move towards digital transformation, the Greek Authorities have recently announced a move towards mandatory business-to-government (B2G) electronic invoicing.
The official legal text, published in the Official Gazette of Greece, outlines the requirements and timelines for electronic invoicing in public contracts. This development marks a progressive step in streamlining public procurement processes and embracing digital technologies.
What do the Greek Authorities aim to achieve?
The B2G electronic invoicing (e-invoicing) mandate aims to establish a standardised framework for electronic invoicing in public contracts. With the adoption of the European standard for issuing electronic invoices, businesses will now be required to submit their government invoices digitally.
Greece, like many other countries around the globe, hopes that the transition from paper-based invoicing to electronic will benefit public procurement procedures. From enhancing efficiency, to reducing administrative burdens, to minimising invoicing errors.
When will the mandates take effect?
The recently published joint decision by the Ministers of Finance, Development and Investments, Digital Governance, and Transport provides a clear timeline for the phased implementation of the B2G invoicing mandate. The decision outlines the following key milestones for expenses in the execution of contracts, whose conclusion procedures start after:
- 12th of September 2023 - contracts with designated major government agencies (for example, the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Digital Transformation, and Ministry of Migration and Asylum) will be required to comply with the electronic invoicing mandate.
- 1st of January 2024 - Obligation for all contracts with all central government agencies.
- 1st of June 2024 - Obligation for contracts with other government authorities.
- 1st of January 2025 - The mandate will cover all other expenses incurred by the government. This final stage emphasises the complete transition towards a paperless invoicing system.
Who benefits from the new mandates?
The implementation of the B2G e-invoicing mandate creates benefits for both the government and Greek businesses. By embracing e-invoicing, the Greek authorities can streamline administrative procedures, reduce paperwork and create more efficiency within public procurement processes.
For businesses, the move towards electronic invoicing improves speed and accuracy in invoice submission and processing. The standardised framework ensures consistency in invoicing practices and enables smoother transactions between suppliers and the government.
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