PEPPOL-COMMON-R056-1
Dutch VAT numbers (9944) MUST be stated in the correct format (NL123456789B12).
What does this rule mean?
An identifier declared as a Dutch VAT number (scheme 9944) does not match the required format.
A Dutch VAT number is NL, nine digits, B and two digits (NL123456789B12). Peppol checks the shape once the schemeID announces it; a receiver can neither match nor confirm a number of another shape with VIES.
Official rule message (standard)
Dutch VAT numbers (9944) MUST be stated in the correct format (NL123456789B12).
Where the rule applies
Syntax: UBL
Affected element (XPath):
cbc:EndpointID[@schemeID = '9944'] | cac:PartyIdentification/cbc:ID[@schemeID = '9944'] | cbc:CompanyID[@schemeID = '9944']
Technical test
The rule passes when this Schematron expression holds true:
matches(normalize-space(), '^NL[0-9]{9}B[0-9]{2}$')How to fix it
A missing or incorrect business entry only you can supply. Add or correct it, then re-check.
Correct the number to NL123456789B12 — or, if it is not a VAT number, correct the schemeID.
Correct the affected entry in your XML, then re-check the invoice. Validation runs locally in your browser — your file never leaves your machine.
Check an e-invoice here
Drop an XML or ZUGFeRD PDF file here. Validation runs locally in your browser against EN 16931 — your file never leaves your machine.