What is a UBL/XML invoice?

What is the UBL/XML format?

• UBL stands for Universal Business Language.
• It is an international standard for exchanging electronic invoices between companies.
• The file is encoded in XML (a structured computer language).
• This format ensures that all mandatory information (VAT, amounts, contact details, etc.) is included and readable by accounting systems.

👉 Advantage for administration: everything can be automated.
👉 Drawback for the user: a raw XML file is unreadable for humans.

Example of a UBL/XML file

Here’s what a UBL/XML invoice looks like when opened in a text editor:

👉 Result: technical text, tags, no layout… in short, unusable as a paper invoice.

The problem for freelancers and SMEs

• Impossible to quickly read an invoice received in UBL/XML.
• Impossible to print it for filing.
• Full accounting software can read them, but it is often heavy, complex, and expensive.

For many freelancers, professionals, and small businesses, this is an additional barrier in the transition to e-invoicing.

The solution: convert into a clear PDF

To keep working smoothly, simply convert the UBL/XML file into a readable and printable PDF.

• Clear presentation (table, logo, amounts, VAT).
• Easier paper archiving.
• Smooth transition to mandatory e-invoicing.

That’s exactly what the UBL Invoice Viewer app offers: open your electronic invoices and transform them into a clear, printable PDF in just one click.

Try it now

Launch price: €4,99 (instead of €19,99)

Available on the App Store (iPhone, iPad, Mac)

👉 Download the UBL Invoice Viewer app here