UK VAT number

Format and example.

Validitool doesn't currently check UK (GB) VAT numbers: they aren't in VIES, and HMRC runs its own service. To check one, use HMRC's Check a UK VAT number service. Northern Ireland businesses trading goods with the EU also have an XI number, which you can check here.

Format

Local name	VAT registration number (VRN)
Prefix	GB
Format	GB followed by 9 digits (12 for branches; GD or HA and 3 digits for government departments and health authorities)
Format example	GB123456789, GB123456789001
Where to check	HMRC (Check a UK VAT number)

Examples show the format only; they aren't real registrations.

Good to know

Since Brexit, GB numbers are not in VIES: HMRC runs its own checking service.

VAT rates in the United Kingdom

Standard rate 20%; reduced rates 5%. Zero rate (0%) on most food, books, children’s clothing and public transport. All European VAT rates

Other countries

Austria Belgium Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czechia Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Ireland Italy Latvia Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Netherlands Poland Portugal Romania Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden Northern Ireland Switzerland Norway