Can UK-Based Structural Engineers Work with German Clients? A Complete Guide to Cross-Border Invoicing, VAT, and OSS Registration

Unlocking How UK-Based Structural Engineers can Work with German Clients.

As a UK-based Structural Engineer, expanding your services to international markets like Germany can open up a world of opportunity. But post-Brexit, many professionals are left wondering:

Can I legally work with German clients? Can I invoice them from the UK? What about VAT and EU tax compliance?

In this guide, we'll break it all down — from issuing invoices to German clients, to VAT handling, and registering for the EU's One-Stop Shop (OSS) scheme.

✅ Can UK-Based Structural Engineers Work with Clients in Germany?

Yes — UK-based Structural Engineers can absolutely be hired by German-based clients, especially for:

Remote services like calculations, CAD designs, BIM modeling
Consultancy on international projects
Short-term, specialist input (even site visits, if compliant with visa rules)

There is no legal barrier to offering engineering services from the UK to clients in Germany. However, there are several important legal and practical considerations to be aware of.

⚖️ Professional Recognition in Germany

For regulated building projects in Germany (e.g., applying for permits), a “Tragwerksplaner” (licensed structural planner) must sign off.
In many cases, UK engineers can still consult or contribute, but partnering with a locally licensed engineer is advisable for regulatory compliance.
For unregulated B2B services or advisory work, no German licensing is required.

🧾 Can I Invoice a German Client from the UK?

Yes — UK engineers can issue invoices to German clients, provided you follow international VAT rules.

If your client is a German business (B2B):

This is treated as a cross-border B2B service.
Use the Reverse Charge Mechanism:
Do not charge UK VAT
Include your UK VAT number and their EU VAT number
Add this note to the invoice:

“Reverse charge: customer to account for VAT under Article 196 of the EU VAT Directive.”

If your client is a German individual (B2C):

You must charge UK VAT if your total EU-wide B2C sales are below €10,000/year.
If you exceed that threshold, you are required to:
Register for EU VAT or
Use the One-Stop Shop (OSS) scheme for simplified EU-wide VAT reporting.

🧩 What Is the VAT One-Stop Shop (OSS) Scheme?

The OSS scheme allows non-EU businesses (like those in the UK) to report and pay VAT on B2C sales across the entire EU through a single registration in one EU country.

OSS is for:

✅ Digital services, telecom, broadcasting, and electronically supplied services to EU consumers

❌ Not for B2B clients

❌ Not for construction or site-based services

If you provide digital/remote engineering services to German individuals (not companies) and exceed €10,000/year in sales, OSS can simplify your tax compliance.

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🛠️ How to Register for OSS (UK-Based Business)

1. Choose an EU Country to Register In

Pick a country like Ireland, Netherlands, or Estonia to act as your Member State of Identification.

2. Appoint an Intermediary

UK businesses must appoint a local intermediary (tax representative) in that country to handle registration and filings.

3. Submit Required Documents

You'll typically need:

Proof of UK business registration
Details of the services you supply
Your UK VAT number
Bank and contact details

4. File Quarterly OSS Returns

Your intermediary will file returns covering all your EU B2C sales and distribute the VAT to relevant countries (like Germany).

📝 What to Include on an Invoice to a German Client

Example Reverse Charge Note (English + German):

“Reverse charge: VAT to be accounted for by the recipient under Article 196 of the EU VAT Directive.”

„Steuerschuldnerschaft des Leistungsempfängers gemäß Artikel 196 der EU-Mehrwertsteuerrichtlinie.“

🔐 Professional Tips for Compliance

Use cloud invoicing software like Xero, QuickBooks, or FreeAgent to simplify reverse charge invoices.
Ensure your Professional Indemnity Insurance covers services delivered to EU clients.
Double-check your German clients’ VAT numbers via the EU VIES tool:
👉 https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/vies/

✅ In Summary

I am UK based Structural Engineer. Can I work with German clients from the UK?

Question Answer: Can I work with German clients from the UK?✅ Yes, especially for remote/B2B workCan I issue a UK invoice to Germany?✅ Yes, with correct VAT handlingDo I need to register for German VAT?⚠️ Only for B2C sales over €10,000/year Is OSS right for me?✅ If selling digital services B2C Do I need a visa for short visits?❌ Not for short stays under 90 days

Need Help Getting Started?

If you'd like a free invoice template for German clients, a list of OSS intermediaries, or guidance on marketing your engineering services internationally, feel free to get in touch — or leave a comment below!