UBL 2.1 Format for Peppol: The Standard Explained

The UBL 2.1 format (Universal Business Language) is the XML standard used for electronic invoices on the Peppol network. It's a structured, machine-readable format that replaces PDF for B2B exchanges. FACTURYS automatically generates your invoices in compliant UBL 2.1.

Why is the UBL format essential?

UBL 2.1 is the common language of electronic invoicing in Europe. It ensures every invoice contains the same structured data, interpretable by any compatible software.

• European standard — UBL 2.1 is the format adopted by EU Directive 2014/55/EU and the Peppol network.
• Structured data — Amounts, VAT, references, identifiers — everything is codified in a precise XML schema.
• Interoperability — A UBL file can be read by any compatible software, without adapters.
• Automatic processing — Data is imported directly into the recipient's accounting system.

UBL 2.1 and Belgian law

Belgian regulations require B2B invoices to be transmitted in UBL 2.1 compliant with the PINT profile (Peppol International) via the Peppol network. A PDF file, even if it contains the same information, is not a structured format and therefore does not satisfy the legal obligation since 2026.

Automatic UBL conversion with FACTURYS

FACTURYS automatically converts every invoice you create into a valid UBL 2.1 file. No technical knowledge required — you fill in the invoice as usual and the format is handled in the background.

• Automatic UBL generation — Every invoice is converted to UBL 2.1 without any manual intervention.
• Schematron validation — Automatic validation against Peppol validation rules before sending.
• PINT profile compliant — Compliance with the Peppol International (PINT) profile required in Belgium.
• Mandatory fields — All fields required by Belgian legislation are automatically included.
• Readable visualization — Invoice preview in human-readable format alongside the XML.

FAQ — UBL Format Peppol

Do I need to create UBL files myself?

No. FACTURYS automatically generates the UBL 2.1 file from your invoice. You never need to handle XML.

What's the difference between UBL and Factur-X?

UBL 2.1 is a pure XML file used on Peppol. Factur-X is a PDF enriched with XML metadata, mainly used in France. Belgium requires UBL 2.1 via Peppol.

Is the UBL format the same in all countries?

UBL 2.1 is standardized, but each country may have specific profiles. Belgium uses the PINT profile (Peppol International).

What does a UBL file contain?

A UBL file contains all invoice data: sender, recipient, invoice lines, amounts, VAT, currencies, dates, references and payment terms.

How do I validate a UBL file?

FACTURYS automatically validates every UBL file against Peppol schematrons before sending. Errors are reported with suggested corrections.

Is the UBL format secure?

The UBL file itself is a text document. Security is ensured by the Peppol network (TLS encryption, certificates, Access Point authentication).