1. Introduction to Angola’s Upcoming e-Invoicing Mandate
Angola’s Ministry of Finance is preparing legislation to enforce mandatory invoicing through certified software, either electronically or otherwise. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and real-time reporting to Angola’s General Tax Administration (AGT).
1.1 Overview of the Draft Law
The proposed law mandates that invoice data must be sent to AGT in real-time and requires certified software to generate standardized billing files (SAF-T files).
2. Definition and Scope of Electronic Invoicing
2.1 What Constitutes an E-Invoice?
The draft law defines an electronic invoice as a digitally issued and received document through certified invoicing software, meeting specific legal and technical standards set by AGT.
2.2 Certified Software Requirements
Invoicing software must:
- Transmit real-time invoice data to AGT
- Generate and manage SAF-T billing files compliant with international standards
3. Implementation Phases of Angola’s e-Invoicing Law
The implementation will follow three distinct phases, each targeting different taxpayer segments.
3.1 Phase 1 – High-Value Transactions
- Timing: Within 6 months post-publication
- Applicability: All invoices exceeding Kz 25 million (approximately EUR 25,000) must be issued electronically.
3.2 Phase 2 – Large Taxpayers and Government Suppliers
- Timing: Within the first 12 months post-publication
- Applicability: Selected large taxpayers and entities supplying goods/services to government institutions.
3.3 Phase 3 – General Expansion to All VAT Taxpayers
- Timing: After the first 12 months post-publication
- General VAT Regime: Businesses with annual turnover or imports exceeding Kz 350 million (EUR 349,000) or manufacturing businesses with operations exceeding Kz 25 million (EUR 24,900).
- Simplified VAT Regime: Taxpayers with annual turnovers or import activities between Kz 25 million (EUR 24,900) and Kz 350 million (EUR 349,000).
4. Voluntary Participation
Taxpayers not mandated to participate initially can voluntarily join the e-invoicing system. Requests must be submitted and approved by AGT.
5. Compliance and Enforcement
5.1 Effective Date
The law’s enforcement begins six months after its official publication, following the completion of all formal legislative procedures.
5.2 Importance of Timely Compliance
Non-compliance with the new e-invoicing requirements may lead to penalties, operational disruptions, and potential legal challenges.
6. Preparing for the Transition
Businesses are encouraged to:
- Evaluate existing invoicing systems
- Partner with certified software providers
- Train relevant staff on new compliance processes
Disclaimer: This blog post is based on the current draft version provided by Angola’s Ministry of Finance. The information is subject to change based on the official enactment of the law. Regularly consult official government publications or legal advisories for precise and updated guidance.
