Short answer
The difference between an enterprise number and a VAT number is simple: it's the same number. Every Belgian enterprise receives a unique 10-digit number (e.g. 0123.456.789). If you're VAT-registered, that number also becomes your VAT number, simply with "BE" in front (e.g. BE 0123.456.789).
1. What is an enterprise number?
The enterprise number (also called CBE number) is a unique 10-digit identification number that every enterprise in Belgium receives upon registration with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE).
It always starts with 0 or 1 and has the format 0XXX.XXX.XXX. Every enterprise (sole proprietorship, BV/SRL, SA/NV, ASBL/VZW) receives this number automatically.
2. What is a VAT number?
The VAT number is the number with which an enterprise identifies itself for value added tax purposes. In Belgium, the VAT number is simply your enterprise number with the prefix "BE" in front.
Not every enterprise has a VAT number. You must be VAT-registered and have your VAT number activated separately. Only after activation can you charge VAT on your invoices.
3. The difference between enterprise number and VAT number in a table
| Enterprise number | VAT number | |
|---|---|---|
| Format | 0XXX.XXX.XXX | BE 0XXX.XXX.XXX |
| Who gets it? | Every enterprise | Only VAT-registered entities |
| Automatic? | Yes, upon CBE registration | No, requires separate activation |
| Purpose? | Enterprise identification | VAT returns and invoices |
| Basis | Same 10 digits, the VAT number = enterprise number + "BE" | |
4. Example
Say you set up a BV/SRL. Upon registration, you receive an enterprise number:
Enterprise number
0792.123.456
You receive this automatically upon CBE registration
Request VAT activation
Via a business counter or the FPS Finance
VAT number
BE 0792.123.456
The same number, but now with "BE" in front
5. Look up an enterprise or VAT number
Want to look up the enterprise or VAT number of a Belgian company? There are several ways:
- Databakkes.be : search by name, address or VAT number and find all info directly
- Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE)
- VIES (EU VAT validation)
6. Frequently asked questions about the difference between enterprise number and VAT number
Is my enterprise number the same as my VAT number?
Yes, it's the same 10-digit number. The difference is that VAT-registered entities add the prefix "BE" and use it as their VAT number (e.g. BE 0123.456.789).
Do I automatically get a VAT number when I have an enterprise number?
No. You automatically receive an enterprise number upon CBE registration, but you must request VAT activation separately if you're VAT-liable.
Does every enterprise have a VAT number?
No. Every enterprise has an enterprise number, but not every enterprise is VAT-registered. Small enterprises, non-profits without commercial activity and certain liberal professions are exempt.
How do I activate my VAT number?
You activate your VAT number via an accredited business counter (e.g. Xerius, Acerta, Liantis) or directly with the FPS Finance. Your enterprise number then also becomes your VAT number with the prefix "BE".
Where can I find the enterprise or VAT number of a company?
You can look it up via Databakkes.be, the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE) or the VIES database of the European Commission. On Databakkes you'll find it fastest.