E-invoice format
ZUGFeRD & Factur-X
Create hybrid e-invoices: a readable PDF with embedded EN 16931 XML. Ideal for B2B and freelancers — the recipient sees a normal invoice while systems read the data automatically.
Hybrid: PDF and XML in one file
ZUGFeRD embeds EN 16931-compliant XML (CII) inside a PDF/A-3. The invoice stays human-readable and is machine-processable at the same time — the easiest way to start with e-invoicing.
- ZUGFeRD 2.1/2.2 — profiles MINIMUM, BASIC WL, BASIC, EN 16931 (COMFORT), EXTENDED
- Factur-X identical: one file valid in Germany and France
- Readable PDF/A-3 — recipients without an e-invoice system open it normally
- EN 16931 validation built in
ZUGFeRD or XRechnung?
XRechnung is pure XML, mainly for invoices to public authorities (B2G). ZUGFeRD is the hybrid format for B2B and B2C. Invocore generates both automatically — you just pick the recipient type.
- B2G → XRechnung (pure XML)
- B2B / B2C → ZUGFeRD (PDF + XML)
- Generate both via web app or REST API
ZUGFeRD — frequently asked questions
What is ZUGFeRD?
A hybrid format: a readable PDF/A-3 with embedded EN 16931 XML. Humans and machines read the same file.
ZUGFeRD vs. Factur-X?
Technically identical — Factur-X is the French implementation. A ZUGFeRD file is also valid Factur-X.
Which profiles exist?
MINIMUM, BASIC WL, BASIC, EN 16931 (COMFORT) and EXTENDED — Invocore supports all of them.