Elnvoice: What is it, and how does it work?

Discover what elnvoice is, how it works and its impact on business management. Regulations, advantages and security in electronic invoicing.

What is an eInvoice?

An eInvoice, short for electronic invoice, is a digital document issued, transmitted, and received in a structured data format. Unlike PDFs or scanned paper invoices, eInvoices can be automatically processed by both the sender’s and recipient’s systems without manual intervention.

This makes e invoicing a key component of digital transformation in finance. In the European Union, e invoicing EU regulations have accelerated adoption, requiring structured formats and secure channels for B2B and B2G transactions.

How the e-invoicing process works step-by-step

The e invoicing process is typically as follows:

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Creation

The supplier generates the invoice using eInvoicing software or ERP.

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Validation

The system checks for mandatory fields, format and tax compliance.

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Transmission

The invoice is sent through a secure eInvoice network or PEPPOL.

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Reception

The buyer’s system receives the eInvoice and begins automated processing.

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Archiving

The invoice is stored digitally in accordance with legal requirements.

This structured, secure, and trackable flow makes e invoicing EU compliant and highly efficient.

Benefits of using online
e-invoicing systems

Adopting an e invoice online solution offers numerous business benefits:
Faster processing and reduced payment delays
Fewer errors due to automation and validation rules
Cost savings in printing, mailing, and manual handling
Real-time visibility into invoice status
Better compliance with fiscal regulations in the EU and beyond
These advantages apply whether you are a small business or a multinational enterprise.

Take the next step toward e-invoicing

The shift to einvoicing is accelerating across Europe. Businesses that adopt compliant e invoice solutions today gain a competitive edge tomorrow. Avoid penalties, reduce costs, and gain financial clarity with digital invoicing.

What is e-invoicing in the EU?

EU countries are leading the shift to e invoicing EU models, with B2G eInvoicing now mandatory across most public sectors. Many countries are also introducing B2B eInvoicing obligations, including:

Italy

Mandatory B2B eInvoicing since 2019.

Spain

Mandatory B2G eInvoicing and upcoming B2B obligations under the "Ley Crea y Crece" with full implementation expected from 2025.

France

B2B eInvoicing phased rollout starting in 2026.

Poland

eInvoicing to become mandatory via KSeF platform.

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about the eInvoices.
What is the difference between a PDF invoice and an eInvoice?
A PDF is a visual representation of a document. An eInvoice is a machine-readable format that allows automated processing.
Is eInvoicing mandatory in the EU
Yes, for B2G transactions in most countries, and increasingly for B2B. Regulations vary by country.
Can small businesses use eInvoicing?
Absolutely. Many online e invoice solutions are tailored to SMEs and easy to implement.
What format is required for eInvoices in the EU?
Common formats include UBL and Factur-X, aligned with the EN16931 standard.
How long should I keep eInvoices?
Most EU countries require digital archiving for 5–10 years, depending on national laws.

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