E‑invoice converter
An e‑invoice converter turns invoices into structured EN 16931 data. In E‑Rechnungs‑Studio, you can convert invoices into XRechnung (XML) or a ZUGFeRD hybrid PDF and validate results directly with preview and checks. This helps you catch missing mandatory fields, incorrect totals, and implausible VAT codes early, then apply fixes iteratively until the invoice is technically clean. You can start from an existing invoice, including a PDF, and export the required target format.
Start free without registration.
What an e‑invoice converter does
- Structured invoice data instead of a PDF-only document.
- EN 16931 compliance as the practical target before sending.
- Format choice based on recipient requirements: XRechnung or ZUGFeRD.
- Preview checks to verify extracted parties, totals, and line items.
- Validation with understandable hints for errors and warnings.
XRechnung vs ZUGFeRD, which should you use?
XRechnung is typically pure XML. ZUGFeRD is a hybrid PDF with embedded XML that combines a human-readable visual document with structured invoice data.
The right choice depends on recipient requirements and the channel you use for delivery. If a recipient demands XML only, XRechnung is often required. If teams also need a PDF view in one file, ZUGFeRD is often practical.
Deep dive: PDF to XRechnung and PDF to ZUGFeRD.
How conversion works in practice
- Provide the invoice source (for example, a PDF).
- Extract invoice data.
- Review the structured result.
- Check the preview.
- Validate and inspect errors or warnings.
- Apply corrections and validate again.
- Export as XRechnung XML or ZUGFeRD hybrid PDF.
Validate, spot issues, fix fast
Errors usually block recipient processing and should be fixed first. Warnings often indicate risks that can still cause follow-up questions or manual handling.
Typical problem areas are missing mandatory fields, inconsistent totals, and invalid VAT codes. A clear validation workflow helps you prioritize fixes and re-check quickly.
Go to validation guideExport and share
Typical outputs are XRechnung XML and ZUGFeRD hybrid PDFs (PDF with embedded XML).
Choose the format your recipient accepts, then deliver through your normal channel.
FAQ
What is an e‑invoice converter?
An e‑invoice converter transforms invoice content into structured EN 16931 data. The goal is a technically processable e‑invoice instead of a purely human-readable document. This enables recipient systems to validate and process data automatically.
Which formats can I create, XRechnung or ZUGFeRD?
Depending on recipient requirements, you can create XRechnung (pure XML) or ZUGFeRD (hybrid PDF with embedded XML). Both can be prepared to align with EN 16931 rules. The correct format is the one your recipient accepts.
Can I convert an invoice PDF?
Yes, an existing PDF can be used as the starting point. Data is extracted, structured, and then checked against validation rules. For complex layouts, you should always review preview and validation results carefully.
Why is validation important?
Validation helps you detect missing mandatory data and broken calculation rules early. Without it, invoices are more likely to be rejected or handled manually by recipients. A clean validation result increases first-pass acceptance.
What should I do if mandatory fields are missing?
Fix high-priority errors first, such as missing mandatory fields or inconsistent totals. Then review warnings and compare values with the preview. Repeat correction and validation rounds until the invoice is consistent.
Do I need to register?
No, you can start the converter for free without registration. Upload an invoice, review the output, and export the format your recipient needs. This lets you test the workflow immediately with a real document.