E-invoicing in Germany: the B2B timeline in plain language

Germany did not wait. Domestic B2B e-invoicing is already live for receiving, and the duty to issue arrives in clear steps. No drama needed, just a calendar you can actually use.

What applies when

Since 1 January 2025, businesses must be able to receive structured electronic invoices that meet the European EN 16931 standard for domestic B2B.

From 1 January 2027, companies with prior-year turnover above €800,000 must issue those e-invoices.

From 1 January 2028, the issuing obligation extends to the remaining businesses.

Formats without the jargon overload

In practice you will hear XRechnung and ZUGFeRD a lot. Both are structured formats. Peppol is a common, reliable way to deliver them machine to machine, next to other agreed channels.

A classic PDF alone is not enough once structured e-invoicing is required for that transaction.

PepCerto supports Germany

PepCerto supports Germany as well, so you can handle e-invoices in one simple product instead of juggling separate tools per country.

If you invoice German B2B clients or you are based in Germany yourself, set up early. Receiving is already mandatory; issuing is next on the calendar.