Paper Invoice Books After E-Invoicing: What Is Allowed and What to Use Instead

1 November 2026
منير
Paper Invoice Books After E-Invoicing: What Is Allowed and What to Use Instead

Many business owners in Saudi Arabia still search for invoice book printing or a tax invoice book, the way things worked a few years ago. Before you order a paper book for your business, it is worth knowing what changed with e-invoicing, when paper is enough and when it is not, and what the right alternative is.

This is an awareness guide in plain language. It does not replace the official website of the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA), which is the reference for what applies to your business.

What Changed with E-Invoicing?

Phase one of e-invoicing in Saudi Arabia started on 4 December 2021. ZATCA announced that handwritten invoices, as well as invoices made with basic text or spreadsheet software, must stop for all businesses subject to VAT. The integration phase then followed in successive waves based on business size.

  • Who is covered? VAT-registered businesses. Registration is mandatory once taxable sales exceed 375,000 a year.
  • What does it mean in practice? Tax invoices must be issued from an e-invoicing system that meets ZATCA requirements, not from a paper book.
  • What about non-registered businesses? Check with ZATCA or an accountant before relying on paper invoices, especially if your sales are close to the registration threshold.

Tax Invoices vs Internal Documents

A tax invoice is a regulated document that proves the sale and the tax, and it is now electronic for businesses that must comply. Internal documents some businesses use to organise their work, such as job orders or in-store order receipts, do not replace the e-invoice. If you need any paper document, make sure it is not used as a tax invoice.

The Right Alternative to an Invoice Book

  1. An approved e-invoicing system: issues compliant invoices and adds the QR code automatically.
  2. A point-of-sale linked to the system: for shops and cafés that print an invoice at the counter.
  3. Digital delivery: send invoices by WhatsApp or email instead of paper.

What Paper Prints Does Your Business Still Need?

Moving invoices to an electronic system does not mean your business no longer needs print. Today, paper prints are a marketing and branding tool more than an accounting one:

  • Business cards: your introduction, with a QR code to your website or WhatsApp.
  • Flyers: for offers and ads, or a small A6 flyer inside every order.
  • Brochures: to present your company's services or price list.
  • Printed menus: for restaurants and cafés, with a QR code to the digital menu.
  • Thank-you cards: placed in the order to encourage repeat purchases.

Browse them all in our paper printing category. You can add a QR code for your e-invoice or social accounts to any print.

FAQ

  1. Can I still use a handwritten invoice book?
  2. For VAT-registered businesses, no; it stopped on 4 December 2021. For other cases, check with ZATCA.
  3. Do you print tax invoice books?
  4. We do not offer paper tax invoice books, since they no longer suit businesses required to use e-invoicing. Instead, we print what supports your brand and marketing.
  5. Can I add a QR code to my prints?
  6. Yes. Add the link in the notes or in your design, and test it before approving.
  7. Where do I find the exact requirements for my business?
  8. On ZATCA's official website, or from your accountant.

Need prints for your business? Contact us on WhatsApp 0559899141 or order directly from our paper printing category. Production takes 1 to 3 business days, with fast shipping across Saudi Arabia.

Note: this article is general awareness, not legal or accounting advice.