France VAT number format
11 digits: 2-digit check key then the 9-digit SIREN
| VIES prefix | FR |
|---|---|
| Structure | 11 digits: 2-digit check key then the 9-digit SIREN |
| Pattern | ^\d{11}$ |
| Company name via VIES | Yes |
| Address via VIES | Yes |
| Verified example | FR40303265045 — SA SODIMAS |
Check digit
Fully enforced: key = (12 + 3 * SIREN) mod 97, written as two digits BEFORE the SIREN. Example: SIREN 40303265045 -> key 40 -> FR40303265045.
Vatline enforces this check locally. A number that fails it is rejected before any call is made to VIES — it protects your quota and keeps the Commission's service healthy.
Watch out for
- The key comes FIRST, unlike most countries. Some legacy numbers carry letters in the key position (old pre-2008 series); those fail VIES anyway.
Check a number
Known-good value: FR40303265045, which VIES returns as SA SODIMAS.