Last updated: 3 August 2026
Standards and formats are what make fast, secure, automatic document exchange possible. When all parties follow the same rules for how documents are structured, different systems can read and process them without manual intervention, regardless of which software or country is involved.
In this blog post, we take a closer look at Peppol BIS 3.0, the most widely used Peppol format in Europe, and explain what Peppol BIS Billing 3.0 means for companies exchanging electronic invoices and credit notes.
If you want to know more about the Peppol network, we will recommend that you read our blog “What is Peppol: The Complete Guide to Peppol”.
What is Peppol BIS and how does it work for e-invoicing?
Peppol is the secure network used to exchange electronic business documents between companies (B2B) and public sector organisations (B2G).
Within this network, documents must follow a common structure so that different systems can read and process them automatically. This structure is called Peppol BIS (Business Interoperability Specifications).
The most used version, Peppol BIS Billing 3.0, is built on the European e-invoicing standard EN 16931.
While EN 16931 defines the core requirements for electronic invoices, Peppol BIS provides the practical rules and structure needed to implement those requirements across borders and industries.
By using Peppol BIS Billing 3.0, companies can send and receive documents in a standardised way, ensuring they are validated and compliant with EU requirements such as VAT rules.
Why Peppol BIS matters
Peppol BIS goes beyond being a technical format. It plays a central role in how companies and public sector organisations across Europe exchange documents, and its adoption is growing as more countries mandate structured e-invoicing.
Here are some of the main reasons why more and more businesses are adopting it:
- Comply with local and EU rules
Many countries in Europe now require Peppol-standard invoices when trading with the public sector. Some countries are even expanding this to B2B invoicing.
- Fewer manual tasks and errors
When everyone uses the same structure, documents flow automatically between systems, reducing rework, rejected invoices, and time spent on manual checks.
- Prepared for future requirements
The European Commission continues to push for harmonised e-invoicing standards, meaning Peppol BIS is part of a long-term strategy for digital trade.
This makes Peppol BIS a safe choice for companies looking to standardise and simplify their invoicing processes.
Key facts about Peppol BIS Billing 3.0
- Optimised for European requirements, including EU VAT rules
- Built on the UBL (Universal Business Language) format
- Standard for e-invoices and credit notes
- Enables fast and secure document exchange between trading partners
- Built on the European e-invoicing standard EN 16931
Peppol BIS vs. PINT
While Peppol BIS is designed for Europe, there is also PINT (Peppol International Invoice), which is a global standard.
PINT was developed because countries outside of Europe wanted to use the Peppol network, but Peppol BIS did not fully meet their local requirements, such as tax rules and regulations.
To solve this, PINT was created to provide a flexible framework that follows the same principles as Peppol BIS, while allowing each country to adapt the format to their specific legal and regulatory needs.
How does this look in practice?
If a company in Germany sends an invoice to a company in Sweden, they would use Peppol BIS 3.0, since both countries follow the European standard.
But if that same German company sends an invoice to a business partner in Australia, it would often need to use PINT, because Australia has different tax and reporting rules that the European version does not cover.
| Peppol BIS |
PINT |
| Focuses on European requirements, especially VAT rules |
Designed for global use outside the EU |
| Based on UBL format |
Based on UBL or CII |
| Commonly used for EU cross-border trade |
Used when working with countries outside Europe |
How to get started with Peppol BIS 3.0
Whether you’re new to Peppol BIS or moving to Peppol BIS Billing 3.0 from an older format, we make it straightforward to get connected and stay compliant.
As an approved Peppol Access Point, TrueCommerce helps you connect to the Peppol network and begin exchanging electronic invoices and credit notes in a secure, compliant way. Whether you trade domestically or across borders, we ensure your documents meet the Peppol BIS Billing 3.0 specification.
Do you want to use Peppol BIS? Contact us today and we will set you up!
Get Started with Peppol BIS 3.0
TrueCommerce is an approved Peppol Access Point. We'll connect you to the Peppol network and ensure your invoices meet the Peppol BIS Billing 3.0 standard.