PDF
XML
History Status
Validation
Entering XML content…
Structured data
With a structured e-invoice, invoice fields are recognised directly by accounting software. This makes validation, routing and booking faster and more reliable.
A PDF can be paperless and still require manual handling. The difference is the data structure behind the document.
Electronic invoice
Digital invoice
Why use structured electronic invoices?
Automate processing
Reduce manual work and speed up invoice handling.
Reduce manual errors
Improve data quality and minimize rework.
Connect ERP systems
Seamlessly integrate with your existing software.
Track delivery status
Monitor delivery, status and processing in real time.
How electronic invoicing works
A simple, structured process to ensure your invoices are processed successfully and without delays.
Step 1
Create or import
Create an invoice manually in Invoice-Portal, or import existing invoice data and files via upload, email, SFTP, API or a direct integration with your ERP or accounting system.
Step 2
Validate and convert
Validate the invoice data and convert it into the format required by the recipient. For Peppol delivery, Invoice-Portal automatically identifies the formats supported by the recipient and sends the invoice in a compatible format.
Step 3
Send via the required channel
Deliver the invoice via Peppol, email or a country-specific platform such as KSeF, depending on the recipient’s requirements.
Step 4
Receive and process
Once delivered, the structured invoice data can be read and processed automatically by the recipient’s accounting or ERP system.
Invoice Portal
Why Is E-Invoicing Mandatory In Germany?
It all started with the ‘Directive 2014/55/EU’ – an E.U directive that has the purpose of ushering in the new era of electronic e-invoicing. The reasons for this are as follows:
It Is Cheaper
E-invoicing is up to 70% cheaper than traditional paper invoicing. This benefits not only governments but also businesses, which can significantly cut costs by adopting e-invoicing systems. In the long term, this change helps everybody.
Better For The Environment
The amount of paper used for invoicing worldwide is staggering. Paper production involves mass felling of trees. While it may not be the sole cause of environmental issues, reducing paper usage is a clear step toward a greener future.
E-Invoicing Is The Future
Many EU countries have already implemented e-invoice systems. Germany is catching up. Despite initial teething problems, everybody will save time and money in the long term. Germany — along with most countries worldwide — is preparing for the future.
STRUCTURED XML
XRechnung
UBL or CII syntax
A pure XML invoice format designed for automated processing.
HYBRID PDF + XML
ZUGFeRD
Human- and machine-readable
A PDF/A-3 document with structured invoice data embedded inside.
PEPPOL STANDARD
Peppol BIS Billing
Secure cross-border exchange
A standardized invoice specification used across the Peppol network.
E-invoicing in Germany
NATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Current requirements, accepted formats and transition rules.
German public sector
PUBLIC-SECTOR INVOICING
B2G invoicing, routing references and submission portals.
German federal states
STATE-SPECIFIC GUIDANCE
Open the state overview and continue to an individual state page.
Country overview
COUNTRY-SPECIFIC GUIDES
Explore country-specific electronic invoicing guides across Europe.
Send electronic invoices
Create, convert and deliver invoices in the recipient’s preferred format.
01
Receive electronic invoices
Collect incoming invoices and prepare them for downstream processing.
02
FAQ
Is a PDF invoice an electronic invoice?
A simple PDF without structured invoice data is not an e-invoice under the German rules applicable since 1 January 2025. A ZUGFeRD invoice can qualify because it contains structured XML data embedded in the PDF/A-3 document.
Do all electronic invoices use XML?
Many widely used formats, including XRechnung, ZUGFeRD and Peppol BIS, use XML. Other structured formats may also be used depending on the country, recipient and agreed business process.
Can an XML invoice be read by a person?
XML is primarily designed for machine processing. A viewer can convert the structured data into a readable invoice representation.
Is Peppol an invoice format?
Peppol is primarily a network for exchanging electronic business documents. Peppol BIS defines the standardised document specifications used within that network.
How do I know which format to send?
Ask the recipient which format, identifier and transmission channel they require. Country-specific and public-sector requirements should also be checked before sending the invoice.
XRechnung vs. ZUGFeRD: What’s The Difference?
XRechnung uses a single file: an XML file.
ZUGFeRD uses two files: an XML file and a PDF file.
ZUGFeRD 2.1.1’s XML file is compatible with the XRechnung standard. So the difference is: ZUGFeRD uses a PDF file as well as the XML file that XRechnung also uses.
Which Format Should My Company Use For Invoicing The German Federal Government?
As a rule of thumb, you should send B2G invoices in XRechnung format. And, generally, you should send B2B invoices in ZUGFeRD format. So if you are invoicing the German Federal Government, the XRechnung format is best. But if you want to send a ZUGFeRD 2.1.1 file, that will also be accepted.
Peppol Access Point
EN 16931 validation
Format conversion
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