Convert PDF to ZUGFeRD using REST-API
Convert a PDF invoice into a ZUGFeRD 2.x compliant hybrid invoice. The API extracts structured data from your PDF, validates it against EN 16931 business rules, and returns a PDF/A-3 with an embedded zugferd-invoice.xml attachment — ready for German B2B and B2G exchange.
Try it out online — no coding required
Upload a PDF and get a compliant invoice back instantly, right in your browser.
https://api.invoicexml.com/v1/transform/to/zugferd
Request
| Parameter | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| file * | binary | The PDF invoice file to convert. |
| strict | boolean | Defaults to false. When true, treat validation warnings as errors — the request is rejected if any warning is raised, not just errors. |
| version | string | Standard version (e.g. 2.3.2). Defaults to the latest supported version. |
| profile | string | Compliance profile. Values: minimum, basicwl, basic, en16931, extended. Defaults to en16931. |
| syntax | string | XML syntax: cii (Cross Industry Invoice) or ubl (Universal Business Language). Defaults to cii. |
| embed | boolean | When true, embed the XML inside a PDF/A-3. Defaults to true. |
Content-Type: multipart/form-data
Headers
| Header | Value |
|---|---|
| Authorization * | Bearer YOUR_API_KEY |
| Content-Type | multipart/form-data |
Response
Code Example
curl -X POST https://api.invoicexml.com/v1/transform/to/zugferd \ -H "Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY" \ -F "[email protected]" \ -F "version=2.3.2" \ -F "profile=extended" \ -F "syntax=cii" \ -F "embed=true"
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ZUGFeRD?
ZUGFeRD (Zentraler User Guide des Forums elektronische Rechnung Deutschland) is the German e-invoicing standard. Version 2.x is technically identical to Factur-X and embeds a CII-based XML file inside a PDF/A-3 container.
Which ZUGFeRD version is generated?
The API generates ZUGFeRD 2.3 by default, the latest version aligned with EN 16931 and the upcoming 2025/2026 German e-invoicing mandates.
How does ZUGFeRD differ from Factur-X?
They are the same technical format. ZUGFeRD is the German branding while Factur-X is the French branding. Both embed identical CII XML inside PDF/A-3.
Is ZUGFeRD mandatory in Germany?
Starting January 2025, all German businesses must be able to receive e-invoices. From 2027, sending structured e-invoices becomes mandatory for most B2B transactions. ZUGFeRD is one of the accepted formats.
Can I use this for XRechnung as well?
ZUGFeRD and XRechnung are complementary. ZUGFeRD produces a hybrid PDF, while XRechnung produces a standalone XML. Use the /v1/transform/to/xrechnung endpoint if you need pure XML for German B2G portals.