Value Added Tax is imposed in Israel on a sale or the provision of a service in Israel if the sale/transaction has a commercial character.

The rate of VAT in Israel is uniform and at present is fixed rate at 17%.

Financial Institutions and Non-Profit Making Institutions

Financial Institutions such as banks and insurance companies, do not issue tax invoices for money they receive. The same is true for non-profit making institutions. The method of payment to the VAT authorities is different for these bodies.

VAT Exempt/ 0% VAT

There are a number of instances in which VAT is not charged. Among them are:

1. Export
2. Hotel accommodation and various services to tourists.
3. Air freight or sea freight to and from Israel.
4. Sale of unprocessed fruit and vegetables.
5. Renting premises for residential purposes.
6. The sale of an asset from which it was not possible to deduct the VAT at the time it was purchased.

Date of Report

The date for reporting to the VAT authorities is the 15th of the month for the preceding month. Thus for example on February 15, the return is made to the VAT Authorities for the month of January. Businesses with an annual turnover of less than NIS 565,000, report on the 15th of the month as well but the return they submit refers to the two months that preceded the date on which the report was made.

How to Open a V.A.T. File in Israel

An Israeli company held by foreign shareholders cannot open a V.A.T. file. The V.A.T. Authority require the signature of an Israeli Resident (not especially a director of the company).

This resident is a sort of guaranty to the V.A.T. Authority that the company will pay the monthly V.A.T. taxes. If the company lacks to pay, this Israeli resident will be sued criminally.

Our firm undertakes to sign for foreign clients at the V.A.T. Authority only if we are nominated as Director of the company in order to be able to follow the activity and be sure the V.A.T. tax will be paid.