What is an XRechnung?

An XRechnung is an electronic invoice in a structured XML format following the European standard EN 16931. Unlike a PDF it is made for software, not for people: opening the file directly only shows XML code.

Why am I receiving XML files instead of invoices?

Since 1 January 2025 every German business must be able to receiveelectronic invoices under EN 16931, so many senders now deliver invoices as.xml files. From 2027 (turnover above €800,000) and 2028 (everyone),sending becomes mandatory too.

How can I open and read an XRechnung?

Use our free XRechnung viewer: drag the file into your browser and read it like a regular paper invoice, or save it as PDF via the print dialog. The file stays on your computer; nothing is uploaded.

XRechnung, ZUGFeRD, Factur-X — what's the difference?

All three follow the same standard, EN 16931. XRechnung is pure XML (in two syntaxes: UBL or UN/CEFACT CII). ZUGFeRD and its French counterpart Factur-X are PDF files with embedded XML — you see an ordinary PDF, the machine reads the XML. Our viewer opens all three formats.