Skip to main content

Reference

Markdown export

ZUGFeRD MINIMUM profile

The MINIMUM profile is a lightweight ZUGFeRD profile with a reduced set of structured invoice data embedded in a PDF.

Profile overview

ZUGFeRD MINIMUM is the smallest practical profile for teams that want a PDF invoice with just enough structured data for basic downstream processing, archiving, and simple invoice exchange.

What it typically includes

  • Core header data (invoice number, dates)
  • Basic parties (seller/buyer)
  • Totals and tax summary (limited)

Limitations

  • Not ideal for strict EN 16931 compliance requirements
  • May be insufficient for public sector or platform mandates

Typical use cases

  • Small supplier invoices with PDF-first processes
  • Early adoption before moving to EN16931 profile

Specification references

  • GuidelineID: urn:factur-x.eu:1p0:minimum
  • PDF/A-3 conformance: PDF/A-3 (ISO 19005-3:2012)
  • Embedded XML filename: factur-x.xml
  • AFRelationship attribute: Data
  • XMP metadata: fx:DocumentType, fx:DocumentFileName, fx:Version, fx:ConformanceLevel
  • FNFE-MPE reference: https://fnfe-mpe.org/factur-x/

How to choose this profile

  • Choose MINIMUM when the PDF is the main deliverable and only a minimal structured dataset is needed.
  • Move to BASIC WL if your process needs totals and parties but not line-item detail.
  • Use BASIC or higher when automation, validation, or compliance checks depend on structured line data.

Implementation fit

Use the MINIMUM profile only after you confirm how much structured detail the recipient, archive, and validation process expects. If line-level automation, tax review, or downstream matching is important, choose the richer profile before you start converting production invoices.

Frequently asked questions

Does ZUGFeRD MINIMUM support structured invoice exchange?

Yes, but only in a reduced form. It is suitable for basic exchange and archiving, not for demanding automation or strict compliance cases.

Is MINIMUM enough for EN 16931 compliance?

No. If the recipient or workflow requires EN 16931-conform data, choose EN 16931 or a profile that explicitly covers that requirement.

When should I avoid MINIMUM?

Avoid it when you need line items, tax detail, validation-heavy workflows, or broad interoperability with larger customers and platforms.

Create a ZUGFeRD file

Convert a PDF invoice to ZUGFeRD and choose the best matching profile.

Convert to ZUGFeRD