Do US companies have to pay UK VAT?
Caleb Butler
Updated on April 01, 2026
The U.S. is one of few countries without a VAT system. Generally speaking, U.K. companies will collect it on sales, pay it on purchases and submit the difference to the VAT authorities. …
Is VAT payable by non UK residents?
If you’re supplying services to non-business customers outside the UK, you may not need to pay UK VAT. These are mainly intangible services that include advertising, intellectual property rights, legal services and accountancy.
Do I have to pay UK VAT if I live abroad?
VAT is a tax on goods used in the UK and you do not charge VAT if goods are exported from: Great Britain to a destination outside the UK.
Does a non resident have to pay VAT?
Foreign companies may register for VAT in the UK without the need to form a local company; this is known as non-resident VAT trading. Foreign companies must register for UK VAT immediately if they are providing taxable supplies; there is no longer any non-resident VAT registration threshold.
Do I charge VAT on US services?
The majority of goods exported to the US can be zero-rated for VAT. In other words, you do not need to charge VAT on the exported goods, or the extra charges such as shipping and delivery. Therefore, if you do several exports to the US, it may be beneficial to not be on the Flat Rate Scheme.
What items are exempt from VAT UK?
Items that are VAT exempt in the UK
- Some food and drink. Most food and drink for human consumption is VAT exempt, but there are some important exceptions.
- Children’s clothes.
- Publications.
- Some medical supplies and equipment.
- Charity shop goods.
- Antiques.
- Some admission charges.
- Gambling.
Who is exempt from VAT disability?
To get the product VAT free your disability has to qualify. For VAT purposes, you’re disabled or have a long-term illness if: you have a physical or mental impairment that affects your ability to carry out everyday activities, for example blindness. you have a condition that’s treated as chronic sickness, like diabetes.