Overview

Amazon has added support for the XRechnung electronic‑invoice format to its VAT Calculation Service for German domestic B2B orders, with the feature becoming active on December 15 2025. The move gives sellers more than a year of testing time before Germany’s legal requirement for structured e‑invoices takes effect on January 1 2027, allowing them to adjust invoicing processes early and avoid a last‑minute scramble.

Key Points

• Activation date — The XRechnung option is enabled for eligible sellers starting 15 December 2025.
• Eligibility — Only sellers who have already turned on Amazon’s VAT Calculation Service can opt in to the new format.
• Compliance lead time — Germany’s mandatory e‑invoicing rule begins in 2027, but Amazon’s early rollout provides a 13‑month window for testing and integration.
• Automation — Once selected, Amazon automatically generates XML‑based XRechnung invoices for qualifying B2B transactions, removing the need for manual creation.
• Technical requirement — The generated files follow the EN 16931 European standard, meaning they are machine‑readable and can be imported directly into most ERP or accounting systems.

How XRechnung Works

1. Enable the format in Seller Central — A seller logs into Seller Central, opens the VAT Calculation Settings page, and checks the box for “XRechnung” as the preferred invoice type. Example: A Berlin‑based electronics supplier selects the option on 20 December 2025.
2. Amazon creates compliant XML invoices — For each domestic B2B order that meets the VAT Calculation Service criteria, Amazon produces an XRechnung‑compatible XML file instead of a PDF. Example: A bulk order of 500 units triggers an XML invoice that includes the buyer’s VAT ID, line‑item details, and payment terms.
3. Invoice delivery to the buyer — The XML document is attached to the order confirmation email and also stored in the seller’s Amazon account for download. Example: The buyer receives the electronic invoice instantly, and the seller can retrieve the same file from the “Invoices” tab for record‑keeping.