Proforma And Commercial Invoice Template for Saudi Arabia

You need a Proforma and Commercial Invoice when conducting international trade in Saudi Arabia, whether you're importing goods or exporting products to global markets. This versatile document serves dual purposes: initially as a detailed quotation (proforma) to secure business agreements, then as a legally binding commercial invoice once the transaction is confirmed.

When do you need this document?

You'll require this invoice when exporting goods from Saudi Arabia to international buyers who need detailed pricing before committing to purchase. Import businesses use it when requesting quotations from overseas suppliers, as it provides comprehensive product and pricing information needed for budget planning and customs preparation. Manufacturing companies rely on it when selling to distributors or retailers who require formal documentation before placing large orders. You'll also need it when applying for letters of credit, as banks require detailed commercial information to process international payments securely.

Key legal considerations

Your invoice must include specific mandatory elements under Saudi law, including complete VAT registration numbers for both parties when applicable. The document requires detailed product descriptions with accurate HS codes for customs classification, country of origin declarations, and precise value statements to prevent anti-commercial fraud violations. Payment terms must be clearly specified, including currency, delivery conditions, and settlement methods. You must ensure all pricing includes proper VAT calculations at 15% where applicable, with clear breakdowns showing taxable amounts and VAT components separately.

Legal requirements in Saudi Arabia

Under ZATCA e-invoicing regulations, your commercial invoice must include a compliant QR code containing transaction details and digital signatures for verification. The document must be issued in Arabic or include Arabic translations for key sections as required by Commercial Documents Law. You must maintain specific formatting standards including sequential invoice numbering, timestamp records, and retention periods of at least six years. Saudi Customs Law requires detailed product specifications including weight, dimensions, materials, and intended use classifications. Your invoice must also include complete shipping terms, insurance details, and freight charges broken down separately from product costs for accurate customs valuation.