International VAT & Customs
Wherever business takes you
Cross-border trade comes with a complex web of VAT obligations and customs requirements that vary from country to country, continent to continent. Whether your business is moving goods from the Netherlands into global markets — or navigating imports into the EU — LENOS c.s. VAT & Customs Lawyers is your dedicated partner at every step of the journey.
Our specialists operate on both the national and international playing field. We combine deep knowledge of Dutch and EU regulations with an extensive global network of trusted advisors, allowing us to deliver consistent, reliable advice no matter where your trade flows.
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International VAT
VAT Compliance Across Borders
VAT rules differ significantly across jurisdictions. What applies in the Netherlands does not automatically apply in Germany, France, the United States or Singapore. For businesses expanding internationally — or foreign companies operating in the Netherlands — correct VAT registration, reporting and recovery are critical to avoiding penalties and cash-flow disruptions.
LENOS c.s. offers full-scope international VAT services, including:
- VAT registration in EU member states and selected non-EU countries
- Preparation and submission of periodic VAT returns in multiple jurisdictions
- VAT refund applications for non-resident businesses — both into and out of the Netherlands
- Processing 13th Directive and EU Refund Directive claims
- IntraStat and Intra-Community Sales Listings (ICP-declarations)
- Article 23 import deferment licence applications (Netherlands)
- Evaluation of cross-border transaction structures for VAT efficiency
- Ongoing communication with local tax authorities on compliance matters
Our Reach: Active Across All EU Member States and Beyond
Our specialists are active in VAT matters across all EU member states, with particular depth in the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, France, Italy, Romania and Luxembourg. Through GGI and VATForum — our key international network partners — we extend this reach to all five continents, ensuring you always have access to the right expertise, in the right jurisdiction.
Strategic VAT Planning for International Business
Going international introduces VAT risks that are best addressed proactively. We work with your finance and legal teams to structure transactions, supply chains and group arrangements in a VAT-efficient manner. We identify treaty benefits, fiscal unity possibilities and optimal invoice flows — translating complex cross-border realities into practical, compliant solutions.
Get clarity on your VAT risks and benefits.
Contact usInternational Customs
Customs Compliance for Global Trade
Our international customs services include:
- Customs compliance reviews and structural compliance advice
- HS (Harmonized System) classification of goods for accurate tariff determination
- Origin determination: preferential and non-preferential origin analysis
- Binding Tariff Information (BTI) application assistance
- AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) certification support
- Permits for active processing, customs warehousing and transit regimes
- Application of free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential tariff schemes
- Strategic trade and customs planning aligned with your supply chain
- Disputes, objections and appeals before customs authorities
From the Netherlands to the world — and back
The Netherlands is one of Europe's most important logistics hubs. Goods entering through the Port of Rotterdam or Amsterdam Airport Schiphol are often subject to Dutch customs procedures with EU-wide implications. LENOS c.s. has deep expertise in this gateway role — advising importers, exporters, freight forwarders and multinationals on how to structure their customs flows most efficiently.
For businesses outside the Netherlands, we provide fiscal representation and customs advisory services that help you navigate Dutch and EU customs rules without needing a local establishment. Our international network ensures that wherever your supply chain operates, you have access to expert customs counsel.
Classification & Origin: Getting it right from the start
Incorrect tariff classification or origin declaration is one of the most common — and costly — customs errors. Our specialists ensure your products are correctly classified under the Harmonized System and that origin is determined accurately, so you can fully benefit from preferential duty rates under applicable trade agreements. We also assist with retroactive corrections and voluntary disclosures where past errors need to be addressed.