What is Peppol and how does it work?
The Peppol network is the global standard for electronic invoicing between businesses and governments. It uses UBL (Universal Business Language) as the standard XML format for exchanging invoices and other business messages. You can think of it as a kind of telephone network for invoices: once connected, you can communicate securely and in a standardized way with other businesses and governments within the network.
Since January 1, 2026, almost all B2B invoices in Belgium must be processed via Peppol. This is part of ViDA (VAT in the Digital Age), the EU plan to modernize VAT rules. As a result, invoicing via PDF or email will largely disappear. The Netherlands is also following suit: from 2030, e-invoicing will become the standard within the EU. Companies must therefore prepare their administration for this transition now. And we are happy to help you with that.
Whitevision offers seamless connectivity to Peppol and ensures reliable and efficient invoice processing, fully compliant with Peppol requirements. Peppol operates via a network of Access Points provided by accredited service providers. As we are a Peppol Access Provider ourselves, the process is simple: once you have shared your details, we take care of the rest at no extra cost.
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Discover how to efficiently process e invoices, XML, UBL and PDF invoices within one streamlined workflow. In this whitepaper, you’ll learn how to handle different invoice formats while improving the efficiency of your accounts payable process.
All-in-one solution for efficient e-invoicing
With Whitevision, you can receive and send e-invoices via Peppol easily and clearly. We take care of all the steps to get you connected, so you can immediately benefit from streamlined and secure processing.
Regardless of the channel through which documents arrive, such as email, portal, web service, or Peppol, Whitevision processes everything in one smooth flow. Peppol invoices are also processed entirely through Whitevision. XML files are interpreted so that the booking proposal is immediately ready. This minimizes manual work and prevents errors, while keeping your administration completely up to date.
All in all, this means less administrative burden, more control, and maximum efficiency in your invoicing process, including all invoices via Peppol.
Peppol. Global road to digital success.
The European initiative ViDA (VAT in the Digital Age) aims to modernize VAT rules and gradually make electronic invoicing the standard for international transactions by 2030. As a result, more and more countries are introducing mandatory requirements for the use of the Peppol network for e-invoicing.
In Belgium, this obligation already applies to all VAT-registered companies that carry out B2B transactions. In the Netherlands, suppliers have been required to send e-invoices to the government since April 2019 if this is stipulated in the contract or mentioned in the tender.
The introduction of Peppol encourages companies to modernize their systems, resulting in more efficient and streamlined invoicing processes. Once connected, companies can exchange invoices and other electronic messages worldwide with any other company that is also connected to the Peppol network.
Ready for Peppol?
In this short video, we explain what Peppol means for your organization and show you exactly how to process incoming and outgoing invoices in a compliant manner. You will discover the steps that every invoice goes through, how to prevent delays and errors, and how to make your administration smarter and more efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the connection between e-invoicing and XML?
E-invoicing means that invoices are exchanged digitally and in a structured manner. XML is the most commonly used format, as it allows the data to be read and processed directly by software. An e-invoice is therefore a digital file containing structured data that can be processed automatically in your ERP system.
How does Whitevision assist with processing e-invoices and XML files?
Whitevision recognizes invoices in XML format, as well as PDF and other formats. Our software enriches the data, prepares booking rules, and offers a visual check. With Whitevision
My ERP can read XML invoices directly. Do I still need Whitevision?
Yes. Whitevision ensures that all incoming documents are processed uniformly and linked to orders, receipts, and general ledger accounts. This minimizes manual operations and makes the process more reliable and faster, while you retain full control through workflow and visual checks.
Can I approve invoices in XML format with Whitevision?
Yes, it does. Whitevision Workflow facilitates the routing and approval of every e-invoice, including XML.
Does XML make processing faster and more accurate?
A completely correct XML file saves steps, but it is mainly about uniformity in processing. Whitevision always processes e-invoices with the correct dimensions, cost centers, and general ledger accounts, so that approvals run smoothly. Smart recognition and AI can supplement PDFs, while XML data is processed automatically.
What invoice formats can Whitevision process, and how does conversion between standards work?
Whitevision can process all commonly used invoice formats, including XML, UBL, and INSBOU. This allows you to seamlessly receive and send invoices, automatically enrich them with ERP data, and prepare them for approval. PDF invoices can also be recognized and processed with AI-driven recognition, eliminating the need for manual file adjustments.
What are the advantages of e-invoicing via Peppol?
- Invoices are sent and received reliably and securely via the European Peppol network.
- Invoices arrive complete and correct, in the right format
- Incoming and outgoing invoices are automatically processed and prepared.
- Easily comply with current and future legislation on e-invoicing
- Whitevision supports routing, approval, and automatic enrichment of e-invoices.
What is Peppol and a Peppol ID?
Peppol is a European network for e-invoicing that enables secure and structured exchange of invoices. A Peppol ID is a unique number that companies can use to send and receive e-invoices. In the Netherlands and Belgium, this is usually the VAT number or CBE number.
Is e-invoicing via Peppol mandatory for Dutch companies that invoice Belgian companies?
Not as of January 1, 2026. The obligation only applies to Belgian companies that are registered for VAT. However, many Belgian companies will request e-invoices. It is therefore wise to set this up in advance. Whitevision can help you connect to Peppol.
Can a PDF or XLBR file be sent via Peppol?
The basis of a sales invoice must be an e-invoice in the correct Peppol format. You can include a PDF in the e-invoice so that recipients can view it.
Is a GLN number sufficient for Peppol?
No, a GLN is a unique identification number but is not suitable as a Peppol ID. For Peppol, you need a digital address, which can be registered via OIN, Chamber of Commerce number, or VAT number.
What if customers do not yet comply with Peppol?
In Belgium, this requirement will apply to VAT-registered companies from January 1, 2026. In the Netherlands, this is not yet mandatory. Formally, a Belgian company cannot yet oblige a Dutch company to comply, but contractually it will often be requested. Our advice is to set up Peppol in good time so that you are prepared.
What about holding companies with multiple private limited companies?
Every entity with its own VAT number needs its own Peppol registration. You can arrange this through a single service provider, such as Whitevision, for both incoming and outgoing e-invoices.
What if a Belgian invoice needs to be sent to a Dutch company without a Peppol access point?
E-invoicing is not yet mandatory in the Netherlands. We recommend that you also email a PDF invoice. Belgian sales invoices must be registered with the Belgian government.
What changes will there be to invoice processing in Whitevision?
Invoices are still coded in the same way as PDF invoices, but e-invoices often contain more information.
Can a company use multiple Peppol providers?
Technically, this is possible, but it becomes complex and confusing. Our advice is to arrange everything through a single service provider. Whitevision can take care of both incoming and outgoing traffic for you.
How do you send invoices via Peppol?
As a Peppol Access Provider, Whitevision takes care of the transmission. All you have to do is submit the invoices to Whitevision; we will automatically transfer them to the network.
What if the recipient does not yet have a Peppol ID or cannot receive it?
The e-invoice cannot be sent. Whitevision checks this automatically and immediately sends a notification. This helps you avoid errors and fines.
How do I get started with Peppol via Whitevision?
As a Whitevision customer, we register you and connect you to our access point. This allows you to immediately start receiving and sending e-invoices, fully integrated into your ERP.
What are the costs?
The costs depend on your situation and volume. Please contact us for a suitable quote.
Discover the benefits of e-invoicing
Simply indicate your choice
Are you a Whitevision customer? Then simply let us know that you want to invoice via Peppol.
We take care of the technical side
Whitevision takes care of the entire configuration. You don’t have to do anything technical yourself.
Get started with e-invoices right away
You can immediately send and receive e-invoices via Peppol, without having to change anything in your working methods.
You are in good company.
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