Saudi Arabia’s e-Invoicing mandate is advancing. On February 28, 2025, the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA) announced Wave 21 of Phase 2 e-Invoicing, targeting businesses with taxable revenue above SAR 1.25 million in 2022, 2023, or 2024.

These businesses must integrate their e-Invoicing systems with ZATCA’s Fatoora platform by November 30, 2025. This guide outlines Wave 21 requirements, benefits, and steps to comply.

Understanding Wave 21 of KSA e-Invoicing

ZATCA’s e-Invoicing initiative, known as Fatoorah, aims to enhance tax transparency and streamline business transactions. Phase 2, which began in January 2023, requires real-time invoice validation through the Fatoora platform.

What Is ZATCA Wave 21?

ZATCA Wave 21 is part of ZATCA’s Fatoorah e-Invoicing initiative, launched to boost tax transparency. Phase 2, active since January 2023, requires real-time invoice validation via Fatoora.

• Who’s Affected: Businesses with SAR 1.25 million+ revenue in 2022, 2023, or 2024.
• Deadline: November 30, 2025.
• Penalties: SAR 5,000–50,000 for issues like missing QR codes or non-integration.
• Early Action: Voluntary go-live before the deadline avoids last-minute hurdles.

Earlier waves (1–12, SAR 10 million+) face immediate fines if non-compliant.

Key Compliance Requirements

To meet Wave 21 standards, businesses must:

• Generate e-Invoices: Issue invoices in XML or PDF/A-3 format, including mandatory fields like QR code (TLV-encoded), VAT number, cryptographic stamp, and UUID.
• Integrate with Fatoora: Connect accounting or POS systems to ZATCA’s API for real-time B2B invoice clearance or offline B2C simplified invoice reporting (within 5 days).
• Use Arabic: Ensure invoices are issued in Arabic, as mandated by ZATCA.
• Retain Records: Store e-Invoices electronically for 7 years to comply with audit requirements.

These requirements ensure transparency and accuracy in tax reporting, benefiting both businesses and ZATCA’s oversight.

Why Compliance Matters

Complying with Wave 21 e-Invoicing streamlines business operations and supports Saudi Arabia’s digital goals. By automating invoice processing, businesses reduce manual errors, boosting efficiency. Enhanced tax reporting accuracy ensures transparency, minimizing audit risks.

Real-time validation through the Fatoora platform accelerates B2B transactions, enabling faster payments. Moreover, adopting e-Invoicing aligns with Vision 2030, positioning businesses as leaders in the Kingdom’s digital transformation.

Non-compliance, however, risks fine up to SAR 50,000, payment delays, and reputational harm, making timely action is essential.

Act Now for Wave 21

KSA Wave 21 is a key milestone. Start preparing to meet the November 30, 2025, deadline and avoid penalties. Check ZATCA’s news page for updates.

For expert guidance and support for e-Invoicing compliance. Contact us KSA e-Invoicing.