MTD not possible for overseas company?

Overseas based company which is recently VAT registered in the UK as an overseas seller. Xero account isn't a UK version. So when trying to submit VAT return via MTD, there's no VAT option in Xero. Does an application need to be made to submit via paper? Surely there must be a method in place for overseas sellers in this scenario as plenty of non-UK companies are registered for VAT?

There is no mechanism for submitting on paper generally. VAT regulations (2014, SI 2014/1497) state that where HMRC are satisfied that paper returns can be filed if it is not reasonably practical for a person to file online for reasons of age, disability, remoteness of location or religion. This is usually reserved for old/disabled persons, remote locations where there is no internet or 4G signal or certain religions which refuse to use technology. You can apply in writing to HMRC but there is no guarantee they will accept, you would have to supply evidence as to why you are unable to login and file a return. Having a non-UK version of Xero would not be acceptable, nor being based overseas (unless you are on some island in the Pacific but the fact that you are on this forum posting a question suggests you do have access to the internet and have no religious reason to use the internet). See here for information :- https://www.gov.uk/submit-vat-return/submit-return-pay-vat-bill Most overseas businesses use "bridging software" which is usually a browser add in or stand alone app which allows you to upload your VAT return data and map it to a VAT return and then the bridging software/app then logs into your government gateway and submits the VAT return (hence "bridging" software acts as a bridge between your data and the HMRC servers). List of free bridging software here :- https://www.tax.service.gov.uk/making-tax-digital-software You'll need a government gateway, create one here if not already done - click "sign in" and then on next page look for "Create sign in details" : https://www.gov.uk/log-in-register-hmrc-online-services these free apps all do the same thing, some have better user interfaces than others. Try various ones to see which one works best for you. You can also filter that that list of software to include paid for or trial versions, may be worth using a paid for version as it will come with user support, whereas the free versions you are on your own, depends on how good you are with apps and software customisation.

Hi,

If you are an overseas business, you should be able to submit your MTD submissions in the same way as a company based in the UK and there are no exemptions available for the reason of being based overseas.

You may need to change the sofware that you use. 

Find software that's compatible with Making Tax Digital for VAT

Thank you.