I paid for my contract upfront in 2017, will I still be charged for VAT?

The effective Date of the VAT Decree-Law is 1st January 2018 and applies to all services provided as of January 2018. This means all contracts for services extending into 2018, since the service (for example, publishing of advertisement) is being provided, VAT will be applicable. A VAT invoice will be issued for the applicable amount based on the remaining period of service in 2018. (Ref Federal Tax Authority)