Frequently asked questions
Does a readable QR code prove an invoice is officially approved?
No. Reading a QR code only shows what is encoded in it. A QR can be well-formed and even carry a valid signature while the invoice was never reported to ZATCA, or was forged. Only ZATCA can confirm approval.
What does “signature matches its own key” mean?
For Phase 2 invoices the QR contains a hash, a signature and a public key. The tool checks that they fit together. It cannot prove the key belongs to a certified device, because anyone can sign with their own key; that needs ZATCA’s certificate chain.
Can this tool verify an invoice directly with ZATCA?
No. ZATCA offers no public service for third parties to verify an invoice from its QR code. Its APIs are for the seller’s own invoicing system. The tool therefore never contacts ZATCA and shows official verification as unavailable.
How can I verify an invoice officially?
Scan the QR with ZATCA’s official mobile app and look up the seller’s VAT registration on ZATCA’s official website. The result screen links to the official lookup page.
Are my invoices uploaded anywhere?
No. Files are read in your browser. The website has no accounts, no advertising and no analytics, and the decoder and fonts are served from the site itself.
Which files and QR types are supported?
PNG, JPEG, WebP, GIF and BMP images, PDF files (all pages, including PDF/A-3 with embedded XML), XML invoices, pasted screenshots and pasted QR text. Phase 1 (tags 1–5) and Phase 2 (tags 1–9) QR codes are supported.
What is the difference between the website and the Chrome extension?
They share the same engine and give the same results. The extension adds page capture, area selection, right-click scanning and calculating VAT on selected text.
Why does a valid-looking invoice show “with notes”?
Notes flag things worth a look — for example that a signature’s key cannot be tied to a ZATCA-certified device, or that the VAT rate is unusual. They are not accusations; they tell you what the tool could not establish.
Is the VAT calculator tax advice?
No. It is a calculation aid. Real invoices round line by line, so a total here may differ by a few halalas. A custom rate does not mean that rate applies to a Saudi invoice; the standard rate is 15 %.
Is scan history stored on a server?
No. History is optional, off by default, and stored only in your browser on your device. It keeps seller, VAT number, date, totals and the result — never images or documents. Clearing browser data deletes it.
Is it free? Does it need an account?
It is free, has no ads and needs no account or subscription.
Is this tool official?
No. It is independent and not affiliated with the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority or any government body.