Frequently asked questions
Everything important about XRechnung, ZUGFeRD and xrechnio – briefly explained.
General
What is an XRechnung?
XRechnung is the German standard for electronic invoices based on the European standard EN 16931. It is a structured XML file that software can process automatically. People need a viewer like xrechnio to read it.
What is the difference between XRechnung and ZUGFeRD?
Both comply with EN 16931. XRechnung is pure XML, ZUGFeRD is a PDF with an embedded XML file. ZUGFeRD counts as an e-invoice from the EN 16931 profile upwards – the MINIMUM and BASIC-WL profiles do not.
Is the PDF view a valid invoice?
No. The XML file is the legally relevant original. The PDF is a readable rendering, for example for your records or for printing. You must archive the original.
How does xrechnio validate my invoice?
With the official KoSIT validation rules for XRechnung 3.0.2 and the EN 16931 rules – the same ones used by the official KoSIT validator.
When do I have to issue e-invoices?
Businesses with more than €800,000 prior-year revenue from 1 January 2027, everyone else from 1 January 2028. Receiving e-invoices has been mandatory since 1 January 2025.
Are my files uploaded?
No. Viewing, converting and validating run entirely in your browser. You can verify this yourself in your browser’s network tab.
View & convert
How do I open an XRechnung for free?
Drag the XML file onto this page. xrechnio shows the invoice in readable form instantly – free, without signing up and without uploading.
Can I open ZUGFeRD invoices too?
Yes. Choose the ZUGFeRD or Factur-X PDF. xrechnio extracts the embedded XML file and displays it.
How do I convert an XRechnung to PDF?
Open the invoice and click “Download PDF”. The PDF is created directly in your browser.
Do I have to keep the PDF or the XML?
The e-invoice must be kept in its original format, i.e. the XML file (or the ZUGFeRD PDF with the embedded XML). The PDF view is a reading aid.
Validate
How do I check whether my XRechnung is valid?
Open the file on this page. Validation with the KoSIT rules starts automatically and usually takes about a second.
Is the check as reliable as the KoSIT validator?
xrechnio uses the same configuration and rule files as the official KoSIT validator. Our tests compare the results with the KoSIT validator.
What does BR-DE-15 mean?
Rule BR-DE-15 requires the buyer reference (BT-10). For public authorities this is the Leitweg-ID. Without it, the invoice is rejected.
Are my invoices stored?
No. Validation runs locally in your browser. Nothing is uploaded or stored.