Why a PDF has no invoice XML

Identify an ordinary PDF and ask for the structured original instead of treating a scan as an e-invoice.

Reviewed 10 Oct 2026

A visible invoice is not enough

An ordinary PDF may display all familiar invoice fields but still lack structured invoice XML. OCR would infer values from the image; FakturFokus does not perform OCR or claim a scan is an e-invoice.

Ask for the source export

Request XRechnung XML or an appropriate ZUGFeRD/Factur-X hybrid PDF from the issuer. Printing an existing hybrid PDF to a new PDF may remove its embedded attachment. Forward the downloaded original rather than a screenshot or print conversion.

Inspect the separate layers

An embedded XML attachment still needs schema and business-rule checks. The surrounding PDF has separate PDF/A and metadata checks. Report a missing attachment distinctly from invalid XML inside a supported hybrid document.

Check your own invoice

Free inspection with practical findings. Comparison, supplier requests and evidence downloads come with Starter, Pro or Fix Pack credits.

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