If you run a business in North Macedonia, you have probably heard about e-Invoicing — the new system from the Public Revenue Office (UJP) for issuing and exchanging invoices electronically. In this article we explain, without the jargon, what it is, who it affects and what to do so the deadline does not catch you off guard.
What is e-Invoicing?
Until now an invoice was a document you created yourself — in Word, Excel or accounting software — and sent to the client as a PDF or on paper. With the new system, the invoice first passes through the UJP platform, which checks it and assigns it a unique number and a QR code. Only then does it carry legal force.
In other words: the invoice is no longer just your document, but one the state sees the moment you issue it. The goal is less tax evasion and faster oversight.
Who does it affect?
The system is being introduced gradually. It first covers VAT-registered businesses, and later it is expected to extend to others. If you issue invoices with VAT, you should assume it will affect you — and it is better to prepare early than to rush at the last minute.
What actually changes for you?
Instead of printing an invoice and sending it, your system will need to send it to UJP electronically, in a precisely defined format. Once UJP confirms it, you get back a confirmation with a unique identifier. That identifier and the QR code become part of the invoice.
For businesses using ready-made invoicing software, this usually means a software update. For those invoicing manually in Excel — they will likely need to move to a solution that talks to UJP.
What you need to get started
- A digital certificate — for electronically signing invoices. If you already file reports electronically, you most likely have one.
- Registration on the UJP test platform, so you can try it before going live.
- Software that knows how to send invoices in the required format.
Our advice: don't wait until the end
Any change in how you invoice brings an adjustment period. It is better to solve the problems while you have time than to discover something is broken exactly when you must issue an invoice.
At ArkaHost we are already working on e-Invoicing integration for our clients running online stores and custom systems. If you have questions about how this applies to your situation, get in touch — we will help you find your way.
Note: the deadlines and details for e-Invoicing are set by UJP and may change. For official information check with UJP or your accountant.