Open an XRechnung file
XRechnung is Germany's national e-invoice standard based on the EU norm EN 16931. If you've received an XML file you cannot open, it's likely an XRechnung. Our free viewer renders it as a readable invoice in your browser — no upload, no registration.
What is XRechnung?
XRechnung is a structured XML format containing machine-readable invoice data. Unlike PDF invoices, XRechnung can be processed automatically by accounting software. It exists in two syntactic variants: UBL 2.1 and UN/CEFACT CII. The format is the official German core standard for e-invoicing.
Who sends it?
XRechnung is sent by German businesses, federal suppliers, and public administration. It has been mandatory for invoicing German federal bodies since November 2020. Since January 2025, all German businesses must be able to receive XRechnung files.
Mandate context
Germany's e-invoicing mandate (§14 UStG, amended by Wachstumschancengesetz 2024) requires B2B invoice receipt capability from January 2025. Issuance becomes mandatory from January 2027 (large companies) and January 2028 (all others) for domestic B2B transactions.
Last updated: 2026-06-01
Frequently asked questions
How do I open an XRechnung file?▼
Drop your XRechnung XML file into the viewer above. It's processed entirely in your browser — nothing is uploaded. You'll see sender, recipient, invoice total, VAT breakdown, and payment details immediately.
What is the difference between XRechnung and ZUGFeRD?▼
XRechnung is a pure XML file with no visual layer. ZUGFeRD is a PDF file with embedded XML — you see the invoice as a PDF while accounting software reads the XML data. Both comply with EN 16931. XRechnung is mainly used for B2G invoicing; ZUGFeRD is common in B2B contexts.
What is the Leitweg-ID in an XRechnung?▼
The Leitweg-ID is a routing identifier required for invoices to German public bodies. It tells the system which department or cost centre should receive the invoice. Invoices without a valid Leitweg-ID are typically rejected by German government systems.
Is XRechnung required for B2B invoicing in Germany?▼
Receipt of XRechnung has been mandatory for German B2B transactions since January 2025. Issuance becomes mandatory from January 2027 (large companies) and January 2028 (SMEs). Cross-border and B2C invoices are not affected.