ZUGFeRD and Factur-X are a hybrid e-invoice format: a PDF/A-3 file that people can read, with the invoice data embedded as an XML file in UN/CEFACT CII syntax. ZUGFeRD comes from FeRD, the German Forum for Electronic Invoicing, and Factur-X from FNFE-MPE in France.
The two forums develop the format together, and ZUGFeRD and Factur-X are technically identical. ZUGFeRD 2.4 and Factur-X 1.08 were published in December 2025.
Profiles
The format comes in profiles that differ in how much invoice data the XML carries:
- MINIMUM and BASIC WL: header data only, without invoice lines
- BASIC: invoice lines with core data
- EN 16931: the complete EN 16931 data model
- EXTENDED: data beyond EN 16931 for more complex invoices
- XRECHNUNG: a profile that follows the XRechnung rules
ZUGFeRD or XRechnung?
Both meet the German requirements for an e-invoice. In Germany, ZUGFeRD counts as an e-invoice from version 2.0.1, except the MINIMUM and BASIC WL profiles. For a hybrid invoice, the XML is decisive, not the PDF. XRechnung is XML only and is the standard for invoicing German public authorities. ZUGFeRD adds a readable PDF, which suits recipients who still review invoices manually.
Factur-X in France
In France, Factur-X is one of the three base formats in the e-invoicing reform, alongside UBL and CII. See the France e-invoicing guide.
How Qvalia supports ZUGFeRD and Factur-X
Through Qvalia’s Transaction API, you can upload the CII XML from a ZUGFeRD or Factur-X invoice. Qvalia converts it to Peppol BIS Billing 3.0, validates it and sends it. The API does not accept the PDF itself. Invoices you have sent can be downloaded as ZUGFeRD or Factur-X, as a PDF/A-3 with the XML embedded. See sending invoices in your existing format.
