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BR-DE-03:German VAT ID required

German B2B invoices must include the USt-IdNr (VAT identification number) in DE + 9 digits format.

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Why This Error Matters

USt-IdNr is required for intra-EU B2B transactions and recommended for all German B2B invoices.

How to Fix It

1

Get USt-IdNr

Format: DE + 9 digits (e.g., DE123456789)

2

Not Steuernummer

USt-IdNr is different from the tax number (Steuernummer)

3

Add to invoice

Place in PartyTaxScheme section

Code Example

<cac:PartyTaxScheme>
  <cbc:CompanyID>DE123456789</cbc:CompanyID>
  <cac:TaxScheme>
    <cbc:ID>VAT</cbc:ID>
  </cac:TaxScheme>
</cac:PartyTaxScheme>

Technical Details

XPath: /Invoice/cac:AccountingSupplierParty/cac:Party/cac:PartyTaxScheme/cbc:CompanyID

Common Causes

  • Using Steuernummer instead
  • Missing DE prefix
  • Number not registered

Commonly Seen In

SAP →DATEV →LexwareMicrosoft Dynamics

Frequently Asked Questions

German B2B invoices must include the USt-IdNr (VAT identification number) in DE + 9 digits format.
Add German VAT number with DE prefix. You can also use Invoice Navigator's automatic Fixer tool to correct this instantly.
Yes, BR-DE-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.
Many instances of BR-DE-03 can be automatically corrected using Invoice Navigator's Fixer tool. Upload your invoice and the tool will identify and fix common issues, including german vat id required.
BR-DE-03 is commonly seen in exports from SAP, DATEV, Lexware, Microsoft Dynamics. These software packages sometimes generate invoices that need adjustment to meet full compliance standards.

Related Errors

BR-DE-01

Invalid Leitweg-ID Format

BR-DE-02

Payment terms text recommended

Last updated: 18 January 2026

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