Intra-EU VAT number

The intra-EU VAT number identifies a VAT-registered company for its transactions inside the European Union. Each member state has its own format: in France it combines the FR code, a check key and the SIREN, while other countries build it from their own national registration number. Its validity can be checked through the European VIES system. Verifying this number is a useful reflex when confirming that a foreign trading partner exists and is active.