France requires all businesses to use approved electronic invoicing platforms

From 1 September, every French company must receive invoices through one of the 140 state‑approved digital platforms, ending the coexistence of paper and electronic bills. The reform, part of an EU VAT directive, applies to the 12 000 largest firms immediately and will extend to all sizes by 2027. Companies that fail to comply risk a €500 fine, which can be doubled to €1 000 for repeated offences.

A survey of 600 TPE‑PME leaders shows that while 76 % are aware of the obligation, smaller firms lag behind: only 79 % of businesses with fewer than ten employees feel informed, versus 90 % of larger firms. About 63 % have already selected a platform, but 36 % have not. Respondents cite tool adaptation, implementation costs and lack of time as main hurdles and call for personalised, on‑site support rather than generic webinars or PDFs.

The government stresses there will be no extensions, but will initially offer assistance and a hotline for firms struggling to meet the deadline.