How to Recover Unpaid B2B Invoices from European Companies

Europe is not one market. It is 27 EU member states plus the UK, Switzerland, Norway, and others — each with its own commercial code, court system, and payment culture. Average payment terms vary from 30 days in Germany and the Netherlands to 60-90 days in Italy, Spain, and Portugal. The EU Late Payment Directive (2011/7/EU) harmonises some rules, but enforcement remains local.

For undisputed cross-border claims within the EU. File in the creditor's home jurisdiction. If uncontested within 30 days, enforceable across all EU member states.

Allows a domestic judgment for an uncontested claim to be enforced in another EU member state without exequatur proceedings.

For cross-border claims up to EUR 5,000. Conducted in writing, no court appearance required.