Open a Factur-X file
Factur-X is the Franco-German hybrid e-invoice format, mandatory to receive in France from September 2026. A Factur-X file is a regular PDF with an EN 16931-compliant XML invoice embedded inside. Our free viewer extracts the XML automatically and displays all invoice fields in readable form.
What is Factur-X?
Factur-X combines a human-readable PDF with machine-readable XML data (UN/CEFACT CII) in a single file. The format was developed jointly by France and Germany — in Germany it is also known as ZUGFeRD 2.1+. It exists in several profiles (MINIMUM through EXTENDED) depending on the volume of structured data required.
Who sends it?
Factur-X is sent by French and German businesses, especially in cross-border trade. In France, the format becomes mandatory to receive for all businesses from September 2026.
Mandate context
France's e-invoicing reform requires all businesses to receive e-invoices (including Factur-X) from 1 September 2026. Issuance obligations apply to large companies from September 2026 and extend to all SMEs by September 2027. Source: DGFiP e-facture reform.
Last updated: 2026-06-01
Frequently asked questions
How do I open a Factur-X file?▼
Drop your Factur-X PDF into the viewer above. It extracts the embedded XML automatically and displays all invoice data in readable form — entirely in your browser, nothing uploaded.
What is the difference between Factur-X and a plain PDF invoice?▼
A plain PDF contains only visible text and images. A Factur-X PDF additionally contains a structured XML file (EN 16931) embedded inside. If you drop a plain PDF into our viewer, it detects this and tells you no Factur-X data was found.
What is the difference between Factur-X and ZUGFeRD?▼
Factur-X and ZUGFeRD 2.1+ are technically identical. Factur-X is the French name; ZUGFeRD is the German name. Files from both are interchangeable and can be opened with the same viewer.