erroren16931

BR-CL-18:Tax scheme must be VAT

PartyTaxScheme/TaxScheme/ID must be "VAT".

Why This Error Matters

Invoice rejected. Line-level tax categorization must use standard codes.

How to Fix It

1

Check tax scheme

Find TaxScheme/ID elements

2

Set to VAT

Must be exactly "VAT"

Technical Details

XPath: //cac:PartyTaxScheme/cac:TaxScheme/cbc:ID

Common Causes

  • VAT category code not from UNCL 5305 list
  • Tax category on line item uses non-standard code
  • ClassifiedTaxCategory/ID contains invalid value
  • Tax code from legacy system not mapped
  • Custom VAT category not in allowed list

Frequently Asked Questions

PartyTaxScheme/TaxScheme/ID must be "VAT".
Set TaxScheme/ID to "VAT". You can also use Invoice Navigator's automatic Fixer tool to correct this instantly.
Yes, BR-CL-18 is a critical error that will cause invoice rejection. It must be fixed before submission to ensure your invoice is accepted by the recipient's system.
Many instances of BR-CL-18 can be automatically corrected using Invoice Navigator's Fixer tool. Upload your invoice and the tool will identify and fix common issues, including tax scheme must be vat.

See Also

EN 16931 Validator

Check your invoice now

Related Errors

BR-CO-01

VAT category code must be valid

Last updated: 16 January 2026

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