Choose the file
An XRechnung is an XML file; ZUGFeRD and Factur-X are PDFs with embedded XML. Both work, including drag and drop.
E-invoice viewer for XRechnung and ZUGFeRD
Open German e-invoices for free in your browser. See the invoice in readable form, with a check of required details, totals, IBAN and Leitweg-ID, and save it as a PDF.
Drop an e-invoice here
An XRechnung as XML or a ZUGFeRD / Factur-X PDF. You see the invoice in readable form and a check of the key details.
The file is read in your browser only and never uploaded.
Incoming e-invoices in Norman
Forward or upload e-invoices to Norman: it shows them in readable form and keeps the original. Unlimited on the free plan.
Start for freeHow to open an e-invoice
Read the invoice
The viewer shows seller, buyer, line items, VAT and payment details the way you know an invoice.
See the check
Errors such as wrong totals or an invalid IBAN are marked red. Notes point to details that are missing but not always required.
Save it
Save the invoice as a PDF for your records. Or upload it to Norman, which keeps the original.
What the check covers
Required details under § 14 UStG: invoice number, date, name and address of both sides, tax number or VAT ID, date of supply, line items, VAT rate and VAT amount.
EN 16931 calculation rules: line items, net amount, VAT per rate, gross amount and amount due must add up. Amounts need a dot as the decimal separator.
XRechnung rules: buyer reference, for public buyers the Leitweg-ID with its check digits, seller contact, payment details and electronic addresses of both sides.
Limits: The quick check does not replace a full validation against every business rule. The binding check is the KoSIT validator.
E-invoicing in Germany since 2025
Receiving: Since 1 January 2025, businesses in Germany must be able to accept e-invoices from other businesses. An email inbox is enough.
Sending: In 2025 and 2026, paper invoices are still allowed, PDF invoices only if the recipient agrees. In 2027 this only applies up to €800,000 prior-year revenue; from 2028, e-invoices are mandatory between businesses in Germany. Invoices up to €250 and invoices from Kleinunternehmer stay exempt.
A PDF is not an e-invoice: A PDF without embedded XML is an 'other invoice'. Only a structured EN 16931 format counts as an e-invoice.
Formats: XRechnung in UBL or CII and ZUGFeRD from version 2.0.1 meet the standard. The ZUGFeRD profiles Minimum and Basic WL do not.
FAQ
How do I open an XRechnung?
An XRechnung is an XML file that a text editor only shows as code. Drop it into the viewer on this page: it shows the invoice in readable form and checks it. The file is not uploaded.
How do I read a ZUGFeRD invoice?
ZUGFeRD is a PDF with embedded XML. Any PDF program shows the PDF, but legally the XML counts. The viewer extracts the embedded XML and shows its content.
Is a PDF invoice an e-invoice?
No. A PDF without embedded XML is an 'other invoice'. Only a PDF with EN 16931 XML, such as ZUGFeRD or Factur-X from the EN 16931 profile, counts. If you load a PDF without XML, the viewer tells you.
What is a Leitweg-ID?
The Leitweg-ID routes invoices to German public-sector buyers. It sits in the buyer reference field (BT-10) and ends with two check digits, which the viewer recalculates.
What is the difference between XRechnung and ZUGFeRD?
Both meet the EN 16931 standard. An XRechnung is a pure XML file, common for invoices to public bodies. ZUGFeRD combines a readable PDF with the XML and is widespread between businesses.
Are my invoices stored?
No. The viewer reads the file in your browser. It is not sent to our servers and not stored anywhere.