Cross-Border VAT Refunds: Analysis of Judgment No. 9556 of 2024

Judgment No. 9556 of April 9, 2024, issued by the Regional Tax Commission of Pescara, addresses a highly relevant issue for businesses operating internationally: cross-border VAT refunds. In particular, the decision focuses on the interpretation of Article 38-bis.2 of Presidential Decree No. 633/1972, clearly establishing the conditions for the admissibility of such refunds.

Conditions for VAT Refund

According to the ruling, there are two fundamental impediments to cross-border VAT refunds:

  • The stability of the organization within the State during the reference period.
  • The performance of taxable active operations during the same reference period, which coincides with the calendar year.

This interpretation aligns with what is provided by Article 3 of Directive 2008/9/EC of the Council of February 12, 2008, which establishes the general principles for VAT refunds within the European Union. It is essential for businesses to comply with these conditions in order to benefit from a VAT refund, thus avoiding potential disputes with the tax authorities.

Practical Implications of the Ruling

Judgment No. 9556 represents an important jurisprudential precedent for companies operating in a cross-border context. In fact, it clarifies that refunds cannot simply be requested based on tax registration, but require a series of requirements that must be strictly adhered to. This leads businesses to pay greater attention to tax planning and documentation of the operations carried out.

Cross-Border VAT Refunds - Article 38-bis.2 of Presidential Decree No. 633 of 1972 - Impediments to Refund - Same Reference Period - Necessity. In the matter of cross-border VAT refunds, Article 38-bis.2 of Presidential Decree No. 633 of 1972 must be applied in light of Article 3 of Directive 2008/9/EC of the Council of February 12, 2008, which identifies both the stability of the organization within the State during the reference period and the performance of taxable active operations necessarily within the same period, coinciding with the calendar year, i.e., the solar year, and not with the tax year, as impediments to the refund.

Conclusions

In conclusion, Judgment No. 9556 of 2024 offers a clear interpretation of the rules regarding cross-border VAT refunds, emphasizing the importance of complying with the requirements established by Italian legislation and European directives. Businesses must therefore pay particular attention to their tax and organizational situation to ensure the admissibility of refunds and prevent any disputes with the tax authorities.

Bianucci Law Firm