On June 1, 2020, Mexico amended its legal framework in order to tax foreign companies that deliver their services within the country through digital platforms and whose services are monetized in the Mexican market.
Foreign companies without a permanent establishment in the country that render digital services, must pay the value-added tax (VAT) for any consideration received, if the recipient of the service is located in Mexico and the delivery of the service is done through software or apps in a digital format, on the internet or through any other network in Mexico, regardless of whether the service is automated or requires minimal human intervention.
To this end, the following services will be taxed:
As stated in Mexico’s VAT law, services that fall into the category of downloads or temporary use or benefits (such as books, newspapers, e-magazines and other intermediation used in the sale of movable assets) are exempt from VAT.
It will be considered that the recipient of the service is in Mexico, when:
When the digital services are delivered through an intermediary, the service provider is obligated to withhold an amount equal to 50% of collected VAT on behalf of the entity that sold the goods, delivered the services or granted the temporary use or benefit of an asset.
However, if the entity does not provide a VAT tax ID, the intermediary of the digital platform services must withhold 100% of the collected tax on behalf of the individuals or entities that delivered such service.
Other tax obligations related to VAT
Corporate entities that provide digital services to recipients located in Mexico (both tax residents and non-tax residents) must do the following:
Considering that the mentioned provisions came into force on June 1, 2020, several penalties might apply if companies are not in compliance. Penalties include the inability to credit VAT or deduct purchases made through technological platforms.
Baker Tilly and our network offices in Mexico are available and can help you register or regularize any commercial activity carried out through a digital platform.