errorubl-2.1
UBL-CR-005:Empty required element
Required elements must not be empty or contain only whitespace.
We can fix this automatically
AUTO-FIXAuto-fix: Remove the disallowed element from the invoice XML. No data loss occurs because EN16931 explicitly prohibits this element.
No manual changes needed
Upload and Fix NowWhy This Error Matters
Invoice will be rejected by PEPPOL/EN16931 validators. Safe to remove - this element is explicitly prohibited and contains no required business data.
How to Fix It
1
Find empty elements
Elements with no content or only spaces
2
Remove or fill
Either remove optional empty elements or add required values
3
Validate structure
Check against schema requirements
Code Example
<!-- BAD: -->
<cbc:ID></cbc:ID>
<!-- GOOD: -->
<cbc:ID>INV-001</cbc:ID>Technical Details
XPath: Various required elementsCommon Causes
- Source ERP exports full UBL 2.1 instead of EN16931 subset
- Generic UBL template includes optional elements not needed for e-invoicing
- Conversion from another format added unsupported elements
- Manual XML editing introduced non-standard elements
- Invoice software not configured for EN16931 compliance
Commonly Seen In
Custom invoice generators
Frequently Asked Questions
Required elements must not be empty or contain only whitespace.
Ensure all required elements have values. You can also use Invoice Navigator's automatic Fixer tool to correct this instantly.
Yes, UBL-CR-005 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 UBL-CR-005 can be automatically corrected using Invoice Navigator's Fixer tool. Upload your invoice and the tool will identify and fix common issues, including empty required element.
UBL-CR-005 is commonly seen in exports from Custom invoice generators. These software packages sometimes generate invoices that need adjustment to meet full compliance standards.
Related Errors
Last updated: 16 January 2026
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