Intrastat in Ireland: Practical information for businesses

Intrastat is a system for collecting data on internal trade between European Union countries. In Ireland, the responsibility for receiving and processing Intrastat declarations lies with the VIMA office, which is part of the Irish tax system. This article takes a detailed look at the key aspects of Intrastat declarations in Ireland to help businesses understand and effectively manage their obligations in this area.

General information and authorities

Intrastat declarations in Ireland should be submitted to the VIMA office located at:

VIMA Office
14/15 Upper O’Connell Street, Dublin 1
D01 F9C1, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Phone: +353 (0) 1 738 3653

Intrastat thresholds

Businesses are required to submit Intrastat declarations if they exceed certain thresholds. Once a threshold is surpassed within a year, an Intrastat declaration must be submitted in the next reporting period.

The Intrastat thresholds in Ireland are as follows:

Exports:

• Basic: €635,000
• Detailed: €34 million

Imports:

• Basic: €500,000
• Detailed: €5 million

Reporting periods and deadlines

Intrastat declarations must be submitted monthly, no later than the 23rd day of the month following the reporting month. If the deadline falls on a weekend or public holiday, the final submission date is the last working day of the previous week.

Submission method

Intrastat declarations in Ireland must be submitted electronically via the ROS system. Registration in the ROS system and appropriate passwords are required. Paper submissions are possible but require prior approval from the Irish tax office, which can be difficult to obtain.

Declaration corrections

If a business discovers that the transaction value was incorrectly stated by 5% or more, they must immediately notify the VIMA office in writing. Corrected declarations can be submitted online via the ROS system.

Zero declaration

If a business is required to submit monthly Intrastat declarations, they must also submit zero declarations for months in which no intra-EU transactions or goods receipts took place.

Penalties

Failure to comply with Intrastat regulations may result in a fine of €1,265. For continued violations, an additional fine of €60 per day may be imposed. In certain circumstances, directors, managers, and other corporate officers may be held responsible.

Statistical value information, delivery conditions, and transport modes are only required when the annual threshold for receipts and dispatches exceeds €20 million.

VAT rates in Ireland

In Ireland, the standard VAT rate is 23% and applies to most goods and services, such as consultancy services, legal services, furniture, vehicles, and tires. However, some goods and services are subject to reduced VAT rates or exemptions, aiming to ease the burden on consumers or stimulate spending in specific sectors.

From January 1, 2024, a reduced VAT rate of 13.5% applies to hot takeaway meals, hairdressing services, certain cultural services, and fuels. Additionally, there is another reduced VAT rate of 9%, currently applicable to electricity and gas supplies to homes.

There are also goods and services subject to a zero VAT rate, such as exports, certain medications and sanitary products, children’s clothing, and the installation of solar panels in schools and private homes. Despite the zero rate, producers can still reclaim VAT on purchases for their business activities.

Summary

Intrastat declarations in Ireland are a legal obligation for businesses trading within the European Union. Adhering to deadlines, thresholds, and correct submission processes helps avoid financial penalties. This article covered key rules, including deadlines, thresholds, submission methods, and procedures for correcting errors. Understanding these regulations allows businesses to effectively manage their Intrastat obligations and minimize the risk of legal issues.