FAQ

The validator checks whether the embedded XML in a PDF invoice meets the formal requirements of the DIN EN 16931 standard. It supports formats such as ZUGFeRD and XRechnung. The validator generates a detailed audit report and a human-readable visual view of the e-invoice. This allows e-invoices to be checked for structural and content integrity.

The validator only supports formats and versions that are currently accepted for tax-compliant electronic invoicing. Outdated standards are intentionally not supported.

• XRechnung 3.0.2 (UBL/CII) ✅ supported
• Factur-X 1.0.07 Extended (2.3.1) ✅ supported
• Peppol BIS 3.0.18 ✅ supported
• ZUGFeRD 2.1.x / 2.2.x ✅ still valid
• XRechnung 2.0 / 2.1 ❌ deprecated
• Other experimental formats ❌ not permitted

If you upload a non-supported format, the report may include a message like "no valid validation scenario available". Please ensure your invoices use current and approved formats.

The 7-PDF E-Invoice Validator will only generate a validation report if the embedded XML invoice file is correctly and fully integrated into the PDF according to the EN 16931 standard.

Although a factur-x.xml may be visible under "Attachments" in Adobe Acrobat Reader, this alone is not sufficient. The file must also be embedded with the following technical attributes:

• Relationship (AFRelationship): Alternative
• Description: e.g. "Invoice data according to ZUGFeRD version 2.1"

If these attributes are missing, the XML is visible but not embedded in a standard-compliant way. As a result, the validator does not recognize the PDF as a valid e-invoice – no further validation is performed and no report is generated.

👉 To create compliant e-invoices, we recommend using 7-PDF Invoice Extractor or 7-PDF Attach Extract and Remove. These tools automatically ensure correct embedding.

“Passed” means the embedded XML fully met the validation requirements. “Failed” indicates structural issues such as missing mandatory fields or invalid elements. The validation report provides detailed error descriptions.

Yes. Using the command line (-mode "console"), you can validate entire folders automatically. Integration into existing scripts or workflows is also supported.

Yes. The validator displays whether the uploaded file conforms to the PDF/A-3 standard – a requirement for compliant ZUGFeRD and XRechnung invoices.

No, no permanent storage takes place. The 7-PDF E-Invoice Validator is a server-based service that runs for technical reasons (Java/XRechnung components) on our own infrastructure located in Germany.

Your PDF is transmitted via encrypted HTTPS (SSL/TLS). The validation takes place exclusively on our servers, and the file is automatically and permanently deleted after processing.

The service is operated with personal liability by a German sole proprietorship. View imprint.

Read the validation report carefully. It provides specific details about invalid or missing XML elements. Check mandatory fields, currency codes, and the XML structure.

Yes. The validator supports command-line use (CLI) and can be easily integrated into scripts, batch processing, or ERP automation.

You need a valid single or volume license (Named User model). The license is perpetual. For batch processing, we recommend volume or enterprise licenses.