xInvoice
xInvoice (if necessary as part of a ZUGFeRD document) is a standardized format for electronic invoicing. It was established by the IT Planning Council for the Federal and State Governments. The main objective is to create a uniform format that enables seamless communication between trading partners during the invoicing process.
Key Features and Benefits
- Replaces traditional paper-based invoices with an electronic format
- Ensures faster processing and reduces manual handling through its technical processability
- Complies with legal requirements and standards, making them legally binding
- Includes structured data fields, including invoice number, date, delivery details, amounts, and VAT information, as well as file attachments (e.g., performance records)
- Eliminates compatibility issues through its standardized XML structure
- Cost savings compared to manual printing, shipping, and data entry
- Contributes to environmental protection
Syntax Options
xInvoice allows two syntax options:
- Universal Business Language (UBL): Based on the ebXML Core Components following global invoice compliance
- Cross Industry Invoice (CII): Developed by the United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business following European invoice compliance
ZUGFeRD 2.1 Standard
- xInvoice can be part of the ZUGFeRD 2.1 standard
- It combines an xInvoice file with a PDF/A-3 document (for human readability)
xInvoice Updates
Version History
| xInvoice Version | Validity Period | mseDoc365 | eBeleg |
|---|---|---|---|
| xInvoice Version 3.0.2 | Since 02.07.2024 | ||
| xInvoice Version 3.0.1 | 01.02.2024 - 01.07.2024 | Update available | Update available |
| Not recommended for use | |||
| xInvoice Version 2.3.1 | 01.08.2023 - 31.01.2024 | ||
| Not recommended for use | |||
| xInvoice Version 2.2.0 | 01.02.2022 - 31.07.2023 | ||
| xInvoice Version 2.1.1 | 01.02.2022 - 31.07.2022 | ||
| Not recommended for use | |||
| xInvoice Version 2.0.1 | 01.07.2021 - 31.01.2022 | ||
| xInvoice Version 2.0.0 | 01.01.2021 - 30.06.2021 |
Frequency of Updates
- xInvoice is updated approximately every 6 months to meet evolving requirements, improve functionality, and maintain compatibility.
Compliance Requirements
- To stay compliant, businesses need to ensure that their invoicing systems are up-to-date with the latest xInvoice version.
- Regularly check for announcements regarding new releases and follow the implementation guidelines.