E-Invoicing for Travel Agencies: Italy, France, Germany, Spain
A practical guide to electronic invoicing requirements across the EU. FatturaPA, Factur-X, ZUGFeRD, and FacturaE explained for travel operators.
The EU e-invoicing landscape in 2026
Electronic invoicing is mandatory or becoming mandatory across the EU. Italy led the way in 2019 with FatturaPA. France mandates Factur-X for B2B from September 2026. Germany and Spain are following. Travel agencies must comply or face penalties.
Italy: FatturaPA via SDI
Italian agencies must generate FatturaPA 1.2.2 XML and transmit via the Sistema di Interscambio (SDI). TOMS invoices use the special VAT regime code. The XML must include progressive numbering, client fiscal data (Codice Fiscale or Partita IVA), and the correct document type code.
France: Factur-X for Chorus Pro
Factur-X is a hybrid format: a PDF/A-3 document with embedded UN/CEFACT CII XML. For TOMS, use VAT category O with reference to Art. 266-1 CGI. SIRET is the legal organization identifier. The format is valid for Chorus Pro upload.
Germany: ZUGFeRD
ZUGFeRD uses the same technical standard as Factur-X (CII XML embedded in PDF/A-3) but with German-specific references. TOMS is referenced as Margenbesteuerung nach Par. 25 UStG. Standard VAT rate is 19%.
Spain: FacturaE
FacturaE 3.2.2 is a standalone XML format (not PDF hybrid). TOMS uses SpecialTaxableEvent code 02 with reference to Art. 141-147 Ley 37/1992. NIF/CIF is the tax identifier. Country codes are ISO alpha-3.
How a CRM simplifies compliance
Instead of learning 4 different XML schemas, a travel CRM generates the correct format based on your country. You click one button, the system produces a compliant document with all the correct legal references, tax codes, and identifiers.
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