Add the issue date in YYYY-MM-DD format. You can also use Invoice Navigator's automatic Fixer tool to correct this instantly.

Is BR-03 a critical error?

Yes, BR-03 is a critical error that will cause invoice rejection. It must be fixed before submission to ensure your invoice is accepted by the recipient's system.

Can BR-03 be automatically fixed?

Many instances of BR-03 can be automatically corrected using Invoice Navigator's Fixer tool. Upload your invoice and the tool will identify and fix common issues, including invoice must have an issue date.

Which accounting software causes BR-03?

BR-03 is commonly seen in exports from All invoicing software. These software packages sometimes generate invoices that need adjustment to meet full compliance standards.

Error codes · EN 16931

BR-03Fixable here

Invoice must have an issue date

This is the rejection, word for word: „[BR-03] Every invoice must contain an issue date indicating when the invoice was created.“

What to have readyInvoice Issue Date

What we doInvoice Navigator automatically fixes this issue by correcting the `cbc:IssueDate` element in your Invoice.

Choose the rejected invoiceor drop it here

XRechnung XML or ZUGFeRD PDF. Checking is free · corrected file €1.90 · the first every 30 days is free · no sign-up.

If you enter it yourself in your invoicing software

Before

<cbc:IssueDate></cbc:IssueDate>

After

<cbc:IssueDate>2026-01-15</cbc:IssueDate>

What the finding looks likeExample

FindingValue missing · BR-03

Location/Invoice/cbc:IssueDate

From youInvoice Issue Date

ThenPassed

ProofSHA-256 and /verify link after the check

Often appears together with

BR-02Invoice must have an invoice number BR-04Missing invoice type code