Glossary on fiscalization in Europe

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France

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# Certification of POS systems in France: What software vendors need to know

Operating a POS system in France means complying with strict fiscal rules and controls. Since 2018, every cash register software must meet anti-fraud requirements pursuant to [Article 286 of the General Tax Code (CGI)](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/codes/article_lc/LEGIARTI000051764897), often linked or referred to the NF525 standard. But with the February 2025 Finance Law, the requirements have evolved, and certification has become essential for vendors.

In this article, we’ll explore what this means for cash register system providers already active in France or planning to enter this market.

## Key points for POS software and systems

* From **March 1, 2026**, only **certified cash register software will be allowed**, strengthening the fight against VAT fraud.
* Non-compliance with certification requirements may result in **fines of up to €7,500 per register**, as well as severe legal sanctions.
* fiskaly offers tailored solutions to help merchants and their clients comply with certification requirements, ensuring the security and integrity of transactions.

![Cashier using a certified POS system in France, operating an NF525-compliant cash register that ensures data security and integrity.](/img/woman-store-certified-pos-system.webp)

## End of self-certification: what’s changing

Until recently, vendors could issue a self-declaration of compliance for their POS software. This option disappears with the 2025 Finance Law.

From March 2026, every certified cash register will have to go through an accredited body (for example, LNE). Self-certifications will no longer be recognized.

International software vendors therefore need to anticipate an official audit and obtain a valid cash register software certification from an external certification body.

## Certification timeline in France

**February 16 – August 31, 2025: deadline to move from self-attestation to third-party certification**

During the transition period, businesses could demonstrate compliance by using a certificate provided by their software vendor. However, for this to be valid, the vendor had to prove they had formally started the official certification process with an accredited body, for example, by signing a contract, accepting a quote, or placing a firm order.

 👉 If you missed this deadline, [contact us](#contact): we’ll help you start the process as soon as possible.

**September 1, 2025 – February 28, 2026**
POS software and cash register systems must either:

* already have a cash register certification from an accredited body, or
* have a certification request in progress

**From March 1, 2026**

Only certified POS software may be used; **self-certification will no longer be accepted in France**.

![Infographic of the French POS certification timeline, showing key milestones, legal obligations, and compliance requirements.](/img/pos-certification-timeline-france-fiskaly-en.webp "POS certification timeline in France")

## Technical requirements for POS systems, simplified

Certification for POS software and systems is based on four principles, commonly called **ISCA**: requirements for unalterability, security, retention, and archiving.

* **Inalterability**: calculate daily, monthly, and annual closings, and keep both period grand totals and perpetual totals. Hash, sign, and journal all records to ensure tamper-evident integrity and prevent undetected changes.
* **Conservation**: records must be stored for 6 years, extended to 7 when the fiscal year is off-calendar.
* **Archiving**: data must be exportable in a secure and readable format for audits
* **Security**: each transaction must be protected by digital signature or hashing, allowing verification

This means that every certified POS software must include tamper-proof logs, immutable reports, digital seals, and a standardized export function.

## The software certification process: are LNE certification and NF525 certification the same?

To obtain POS software certification, two main options exist:

* **LNE certification**, issued by the Laboratoire National de Métrologie et d’Essais
* **NF525 certification**, managed by AFNOR/InfoCert

Both validate the same legal requirements, but each of the certification bodies has their own standards, therefore their requirements and certification processes differ. The process includes:

1. Submitting documentation showing how the software meets the technical requirements
2. Undergoing functional and technical tests performed by the certifying body
3. Receiving the certificate of conformity

Once obtained, your certified cash register software is officially recognized as compliant by the French tax administration.

## Risks of non-compliance

The consequences are serious:

**Merchants**: fines of €7,500 per non-compliant register, renewed until the issue is resolved

**Software vendors**: penalties of up to 15% of revenue generated from non-compliant solutions

**Criminal liability**:

* Forging a document is a crime ([Article 441-1 of the French Penal Code](https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/codes/article_lc/LEGIARTI000006418753/2002-01-01)): up to 3 years in prison and a €45,000 fine
* Foreign vendors who provide fake certificates to French businesses are also liable
* VAT payers who knowingly present a fake certificate to the authorities face the same penalties

In practice, entering the French market without certified POS software is impossible from now on.

## How to stay compliant easily with fiskaly

At fiskaly, we help software vendors and their clients meet these obligations without technical complexity. Our solutions fiskaly SIGN FR and fiskaly SAFE provide the infrastructure needed to ensure compliant and secure transaction management.

* **fiskaly SIGN FR**: every transaction is digitally signed and protected against alteration, guaranteeing inalterability and security
* **fiskaly SAFE**: storage, retention, and archiving in line with fiscal standards, ready for audits

With our cloud services, you can more easily obtain **LNE certification** and access the French market with confidence.

![Diagram showing how fiskaly supports POS providers with certification, highlighting fiscal compliance and data archiving to prevent VAT fraud.](/img/how-do-fiskaly-solutions-work-in-france-en.webp "How do fiskaly solutions work in France?")

## Ready to certify your POS software in France?

The countdown has started. With the end of self-certification, only external cash register certification will be valid.

Whether you’ve heard of LNE certification, NF525 certification, NF525 norm, cash register certification or certified cash register software... It doesn't matter how you call it, fiskaly helps you comply with the legal requirements and focus on scaling your business, taking the compliance load off your shoulders.

👉 [Contact us](#contact) to learn how **fiskaly [SIGN FR](https://www.fiskaly.com/signfr) and SAFE** can prepare your cash register system for certification in France, giving your clients a solution fully compliant with fiscal control requirements.

Our mission is to make fiscalization simple, transparent, and reliable for software vendors who want to operate in regulated markets.

We are already a trusted partner for many POS providers across Europe. fiskaly operates in Germany, Austria, Spain, and Italy, where our services are certified and used daily by thousands of merchants. With over 1 million POS terminals powered by fiskaly solutions, we bring expertise and proven stability to every market.

👇 [Let's talk](#contact) about how fiskaly can help you obtain certification in France quickly.

Self-certification in France… c’est fini! From March 2026, only cash registers certified by an official body will be accepted in France. Find out what this means for software vendors and how to prepare.

Interested? Request a first meeting

Free checklist for your POS certification

fiskaly blog

POS software certification in France: self-certification ends in 2026. Only certified cash registers will be compliant. Read more!

Cash register systems certification in France | NF525 & LNE standards

Certification of POS systems in France: What software vendors need to know

## What is fiscalization?

Fiscalization refers to the **legal framework** and **technical measures** implemented by governments **to ensure the accurate recording and reporting of financial transactions for tax purposes**.

This system is designed to combat tax evasion and improve transparency in business operations by mandating the use of certified devices, software, or procedures that securely document sales data.

**Fiscalization requirements vary by country but typically include**

* the **use of fiscal devices** like cash registers or software integrated with tax authorities,
* the **issuance of compliant receipts**,
* and the **real-time or periodic transmission of transaction data** to governmental systems.

These measures help create a more secure and reliable tax ecosystem, benefiting both businesses and regulatory bodies.

## What is the goal of fiscalization?

Fiscalization is the cornerstone of modern tax compliance systems, ensuring that every financial transaction is securely recorded and reported to tax authorities. At its heart, fiscalization involves implementing technology-driven measures, such as certified software, secure devices, or real-time reporting systems, to safeguard the integrity of financial data.

### Fiscalization combats tax fraud

One of the primary drivers of fiscalization is to reduce tax evasion, particularly in cash-heavy sectors. By mandating secure and tamper-proof transaction recording, fiscalization ensures that all taxable revenues are accurately reported.

### Fiscalization increases transparency

Fiscalization systems enhance visibility for tax authorities, enabling real-time monitoring or prompt access to transaction data. This increased transparency fosters greater trust in the system and ensures accountability across all market participants.

## What does fiscalization look like in Europe?

Europe’s fiscalization requirements vary significantly from country to country, reflecting diverse legal frameworks, technical infrastructures, and enforcement approaches.

**Depending on country-specific regulations, fiscalization solutions can be**

* **hardware-based**, such as tamper-proof cash registers or certified telematic devices,
* or **software-based**, involving cloud solutions or certified applications. 

Hardware-based approaches often require physical devices to be installed at the point of sale, while software-based systems leverage (cloud) technology for secure and flexible data transmission.

Countries such as Germany, Italy, or Austria also allow for a **combined approach** of hardware and software options.

![Map showing different approaches to fiscalization in Europe: cloud-based, software-based, hardware-based, and combined](/img/fiscalization-in-europe.webp "Map of fiscalization in Europe")

Let’s have a look at the fiscalization frameworks of key European markets, providing a comprehensive overview of their requirements and upcoming changes.

1. **[Germany:](https://www.fiskaly.com/blog/fiscalization-and-tax-compliance-in-europe#germany)** Germany introduced its fiscalization system in 2020 through the Kassensicherungsverordnung (Cash Register Security Ordinance, or KassenSichV). The regulation mandates that all cash registers must be equipped with a [certified technical security system (TSS)](https://www.fiskaly.com/signde).
2. **[Austria:](https://www.fiskaly.com/blog/fiscalization-and-tax-compliance-in-europe#austria)** Austria’s fiscalization system was introduced in 2016. The Registrierkassensicherheitsverordnung (Cash Register Security Regulation, or RKSV) relies on digital signatures to[ secure transaction data](https://www.fiskaly.com/signat) and ensure its integrity. It mandates businesses to use tamper-proof cash registers to record all transactions securely.
3. **[Spain:](https://www.fiskaly.com/blog/fiscalization-and-tax-compliance-in-europe#spain)** Spain’s fiscalization framework focuses on pure cloud fiscalization, and the fiscal landscape is quite complex, as Spain has five different tax authorities across the country, with [various legislations](https://www.fiskaly.com/signes) impacting different types of companies.
4. **[Italy:](https://www.fiskaly.com/blog/fiscalization-and-tax-compliance-in-europe#italy)** Italy was the first country to adopt fiscal regulations and is currently undergoing a [move towards software-based fiscalization](https://www.fiskaly.com/signit).
5. **[France:](https://www.fiskaly.com/blog/fiscalization-and-tax-compliance-in-europe#france)** France has taken a software-centric approach to fiscalization with its 2018 regulation requiring [certified cash register systems](https://www.fiskaly.com/signfr).
6. **[Sweden:](https://www.fiskaly.com/blog/fiscalization-and-tax-compliance-in-europe#sweden)** Sweden introduced its fiscalization system in 2010. The framework requires businesses above a turnover threshold to use [certified cash registers](https://www.fiskaly.com/blog/certified-cash-registers-in-sweden) connected to certified control units, which record and secure transaction data in compliance with the Tax Agency’s regulations.

Fiscalization ensures secure and transparent tax compliance, but rules vary across Europe. Explore the fiscalization frameworks of Germany, Austria, Spain, Italy, and France, including certified systems, electronic receipts, and real-time reporting. Discover how to stay compliant and simplify tax processes in key European markets.

🇩🇪 The KassenSichV in Germany

🇦🇹 The requirements of the RKSV in Austria

🇪🇸 SII, Verifactu and TicketBAI in Spain

🇮🇹 New software opportunities for fiscalization in Italy

🇫🇷 Certified cash register software in France

🇸🇪 Kassaregister and kontrollenhet in Sweden

Need a strong partner?

Get to know fiscalization in Europe, including Germany, Austria, Italy, Spain and France. Learn how to navigate tax compliance.

Fiscalization in Europe: Key regulations in Germany, Spain, Italy & France

Navigating fiscalization regulations in Europe

If you're a Swedish company or sell in Sweden, you’ll quickly meet three words: **Skatteverket** (the Swedish Tax Agency), **kassaregister** (cash register), and **kontrollenhet** (control unit).

We break down the essentials:

* what the rules are,
* why they exist,
* who must comply,
* and what’s changing

We’ll also touch on modern options like cloud based POS software and certified cloud control units.

## Fiscalization in Sweden: Key terms

* **Skatteverket:** Sweden’s tax authority. It sets and enforces cash-register rules, keeps the lists of manufacturer-declared registers and certified control units, and performs inspections.
* **Kassaregister:** The cash register. Any system that registers sales must be certified and meet the Swedish Tax Agency's technical rules (SKVFS 2014:9, now evolving to SKVFS 2021:17). It must work with a certified control unit.
* **Kontrollenhet:** The control unit, a security component that receives each receipt event, generates a control code, and stores data for audit. It can be hardware or cloud (via API).

## Why cash registers are required in Sweden

Sweden introduced mandatory certified registers to protect compliant businesses and make tax evasion harder in cash and card-heavy sectors. The rules are defined in the Tax Procedure Act and in Skatteverket regulations, specifically

* **SKVFS 2014:9** (details the technical requirements that cash registers must meet to be considered compliant)
* and **SKVFS 2014:10** (outlines the rules for the use of cash registers).

**Since 2010**, qualifying merchants must use certified systems with a control unit and the enforcement applies on a national level.

## What are the cash register requirements in Sweden and what's the role of Skatteverket?

Businesses that accept payments in cash, by card, or equivalent electronic methods and exceed the annual turnover threshold (SEK 235,200, as of 2025) must use a certified cash register connected to a certified control unit. The control unit generates unique control codes and stores transaction data, and can be provided either as a physical device or a cloud-based service accessed via API.

All fiscal equipment must be registered with the Swedish Tax Agency, and daily procedures must be followed, including issuing a receipt for each transaction (in paper or electronic form) and generating an end-of-day report.

### 1. Certification of the cash register and control unit

A key element of Sweden’s fiscalization system is the use of certified equipment. Cash registers must include a manufacturer’s declaration confirming compliance with Skatteverket’s technical rules (mainly SKVFS 2014:9). The connected control unit must also be certified, following security and functionality standards set by the Tax Agency (such as SKVFS 2009:2).

### 2. Reporting to the Tax Agency

After obtaining a certified cash register and control unit, businesses must register them with Skatteverket. Registration is mainly done through an online service provided by the Tax Agency.

Any changes to registered equipment must also be reported within two weeks, including

* Acquiring an additional cash register,
* Replacing an existing cash register or control unit,
* or connecting a cash register to a different control unit.

![ship with a Swedish flag in front of colourful houses in Stockholm](/img/istock-1314099040.webp)

## What changes are coming?

**From January 1, 2027,** all cash registers covered by the fiscalization rules must meet the updated technical standards set out in the Swedish Tax Agency's regulation SKVFS 2021:17. A central change is that cash registers with journal memory must be able to produce transaction logs in a standardized XML format.

## Where do these regulations apply?

The fiscalization requirements apply nationwide. There are no provincial variants (like in[ Spain](https://www.fiskaly.com/blog?tags=Spain)), the rules are set and enforced centrally by the Swedish Tax Agency across the country.

## Who must comply with the obligation?

You must use a certified cash register if you sell goods or services in Sweden and accept cash, cards, or equivalent electronic payments and your annual sales of those payments exceed four times the price-base amount (SEK 235 200 for 2025) for the financial year. If you’re below that level, you’re exempt.

Additional [activity-based exemptions](https://www.skatteverket.se/servicelankar/otherlanguages/englishengelska/businessesandemployers/startingandrunningaswedishbusiness/cashregisters/exemptionsfromthecashregisterrequirement.4.57cadbbd15a3688ff44deba.html) include, for example, taxi operations and unmanned sales via vending machines.

## Opportunities for modern cloud fiscalization: certified control units via API

Sweden’s regulatory framework does not mandate a hardware-only approach. As long as the functional and security requirements are met, a control unit can also be implemented as a certified cloud-based solution via API, similar to[ other countries like Germany or Austria](https://www.fiskaly.com/blog/fiscalization-and-tax-compliance-in-europe).

Compliance through a cloud service offers advantages compared to a hardware approach:

* **Flexibility:** Cloud-based control units integrate seamlessly with modern cloud POS systems and enable smooth connections with other business tools, reducing reliance on proprietary hardware.
* **Reduced hardware dependence:** Unlike traditional POS systems, mobile POS with cloud APIs doesn’t rely on bulky local servers or special hardware. This lowers costs and allows updates to roll out centrally.
* **Scalability:** Ideal for a bigger infrastructure managing a large number of registers across multiple locations.
* **Reliability and compliance:** Certified cloud services are maintained by the provider, updates or regulatory changes are covered quickly, removing part of the compliance burden from businesses.

Sweden requires certified cash registers and control units for businesses taking cash, card, or electronic payments. We explain the rules, who must comply, how registration works, and what’s changing with the 2027 update. We also look at modern cloud-based options that simplify compliance and integration.

Learn Sweden’s fiscalization rules: certified cash registers, control units, compliance steps, and key changes coming in 2027.

Fiscalization in Sweden: Certified cash registers & 2027 updates

Kassaregister: Certified cash registers in Sweden

Latest news on fiscalization in Europe

Key legal, regulatory, and industry terms for fiscalization across Europe for businesses and developers.

Glossary on fiscalization in Europe

Global

Fiscalization

Signature

API

Transaction

POS

Cloud-based

QR code

Electronic invoice

Germany

KassenSichV

TSS (Technical Security System)

DSFinV-K

TAR file

BSI

BMF

SMAERS

Process Data

Austria

RKSV

DEP (Datenerfassungsprotokoll)

FinanzOnline

Signature Device

Spain

TicketBAI

Batuz

LROE (Libro Registro de Operaciones Económicas)

AEAT

Verifactu

Computerized Invoicing Systems (SIF)

Italy

SDI (Sistema di Interscambio)

RT (Registratore Telematico)

Tax Agency (AdE)

Telematic Receipts

Commercial Document

France

Finance Law February 2025

Third-party certification

ISCA principles

Certification body

Sweden

Skatteverket (Tax Agency)

Kassaregister (cash register)

Kontrollenhet (control unit)