VeriFactu for Restaurants in 2027: What Changes and How to Comply
VeriFactu is Spain's mandatory electronic invoicing system from the AEAT (tax authority). Starting January 2027 for companies and July 2027 for freelancers, all restaurants must issue invoices and tickets through certified software that validates each document in real time with a unique QR code. Non-compliance can result in fines up to €150,000.
What is VeriFactu?
VeriFactu is the electronic invoice verification system developed by Spain's tax authority (AEAT). It requires every business invoice and ticket to carry a unique digital fingerprint, a verifiable QR code, and in many cases, automatic transmission to the tax authority in real time.
For restaurants, this means your POS software must be certified by the AEAT and connected to VeriFactu before the deadline. Every ticket — whether it's a €2 coffee or a €200 group dinner — must be generated through this system.
Compliance timeline
| Who | Deadline | Details |
|---|---|---|
| POS manufacturers | 29 Jul 2025 | Cannot sell non-certified POS systems after this date |
| Companies (Corporation Tax) | 1 Jan 2027 | Mandatory VeriFactu for all corporations |
| Freelancers and SMEs | 1 Jul 2027 | Mandatory for all IRPF taxpayers including bars and restaurants |
Source: RDL 15/2025 and AEAT official documentation. These dates may be updated — always verify at agenciatributaria.es.
What your restaurant needs to do
- Check your current POS software. Contact your provider and ask if they have a VeriFactu-certified version. If not, you need to migrate.
- Ensure stable internet at every terminal. VeriFactu validates invoices in real time. An offline terminal cannot issue compliant tickets.
- Train your staff on the new ticket format. Customers can request both paper and electronic copies.
- Review all invoice types. Both full invoices (facturas) and simplified invoices (tickets) are covered — no exceptions by amount.
Penalties for non-compliance
The Anti-Fraud Law includes significant penalties:
- Not using certified software: €1,000 – €50,000 depending on invoicing volume
- Serious breaches with non-compliant invoicing: up to €150,000
- These fines apply per infraction, not per year
How to choose the right POS software
| Approach | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cloud POS with built-in VeriFactu | Zero config, automatic updates, real-time validation | Requires internet, monthly subscription |
| On-premise POS + VeriFactu adapter | Works offline for other features | Manual updates, integration complexity |
| Manual VeriFactu portal | Free from AEAT | Not practical for high-volume restaurants |
Cloud POS systems like Mesabot are designed with VeriFactu compliance built in — every ticket is validated in real time, QR codes are generated automatically, and the audit trail is accessible from your dashboard.
What about TicketBAI?
If your restaurant is in the Basque Country or Navarre, you already comply with a similar system called TicketBAI. VeriFactu does not apply in these regions — TicketBAI remains the standard.
Bottom line
VeriFactu is not optional. The question is whether you migrate proactively or scramble at the last minute. Start by asking your POS provider about their VeriFactu timeline today.
Frequently asked questions
What is VeriFactu and who does it apply to?+
VeriFactu is Spain's electronic invoice verification system from the AEAT. It applies to all businesses that issue invoices in Spain, including all restaurants, bars, and cafés. Companies must comply from January 2027; freelancers from July 2027.
What happens if my restaurant doesn't use VeriFactu?+
Fines range from €1,000 to €150,000 depending on the severity and your invoicing volume. POS manufacturers cannot sell non-certified systems after July 2025, and using non-certified software after the deadlines triggers penalties.
Does VeriFactu apply to small transactions and free drinks?+
Yes. VeriFactu covers all invoices and tickets regardless of amount, including complimentary items and staff drinks. Every transaction must be recorded through the certified system.
Does VeriFactu replace TicketBAI in the Basque Country?+
No. In the Basque Country and Navarre, TicketBAI remains the applicable system. VeriFactu applies to the rest of Spain.