France is taking another major step toward its mandatory e-invoicing mandate. The government has officially renamed the term PDP (Plateforme de Dématérialisation Partenaire) to PA (Plateforme Agréée), or “Approved Platform.”
At first glance, this might look like a minor update. In reality, it signals a stronger, more centralized approach to e-invoicing across France. For businesses, it means clarity, consistency, and a sharper focus on compliance.
A name change that reflects a bigger shift
This isn’t just a rebrand. The new term Plateforme Agréée highlights the official role these platforms play in the French e-invoicing model. From now on, companies won’t be able to freely choose any channel to send and receive invoices. Instead, all e-invoicing and reporting must flow through certified providers; the PAs.
Each PA must meet strict technical and security requirements, undergo official certification, and stay compliant as regulations evolve. This guarantees that invoicing flows remain secure, consistent, and reliable across the entire system.
Why the change was needed
When PDPs were first introduced, there was confusion about roles and responsibilities. By renaming them as “approved platforms,” the French government is making things clear: if you want to stay compliant, you must work with a certified PA.
This clarification comes at a crucial moment. France’s full e-invoicing and e-reporting mandate is approaching, with key deadlines starting in September 2026.
What it means for your business
For companies already preparing, this change won’t disrupt your plans. The requirements remain the same, and if you’re already working with a certified provider, you’re in a strong position.
But if you haven’t started yet, now is the time. Every business operating in France will need to use a PA for invoice management and tax reporting. This isn’t optional, it’s how the system is designed.
The benefits are clear:
- More reliable data
- Fewer errors
- Stronger automation
- A foundation for broader digital finance transformation
Basware’s role as a Plateforme Agréée
At Basware, we are proud to have been among the first providers approved under reserve by the French tax authority as a PDP, and now as a PA. This certification means we are fully authorized to handle compliant e-invoicing and reporting in France.
We’ve already guided many organizations through their preparation journeys, helping them align ERP systems, structure invoice data, and plan for both the 2026 and 2027 deadlines with confidence.
Looking ahead
The renaming of PDPs to PAs is more than just a semantic update. It reflects a broader global shift: governments treating e-invoicing not only as a compliance requirement but also as an opportunity to modernize financial operations.
For finance and IT leaders, this is the right moment to align systems with the new framework and ensure you’re working with a partner who delivers compliance while also driving efficiency and value.
France’s e-invoicing law is reshaping how businesses operate. Get compliant, stay efficient, and let Basware help you every step of the way. Learn how our solution can help.
