In Germany, b2b invoices have to be saved in the ZugFerd format.
The ZugFerd format consists of a PDF containing the invoice text with embedded XML that includes the machine-readable invoice content.
The PDF format must be PDF/A-3.
We create the PDF from Crystal Reports. The standard PDF files from Crystal Reports are not PDF/A-3. This issue needs to be resolved.
We need a routine that combines an existing PDF file (from Crystal Reports) and an existing XML file to create a correct PDF/A-3 file in the ZugFerd format.
This routine will then be integrated into our software.
We program using Microsoft Visual Studio and the Visual Basic language. Therefore, the routine should also be written in Visual Basic.
The software should exhibit the following behavior:
Input:
Path to the existing XML file and
Path to the existing PDF file (not PDF/A3) and
Path to the finished file (PDF/A3)
Behaviour: The Program combines the two existing files and converts them accordingly.
Output:
The finished file will be provided to the specified path.
Please indicate if you are using any third-party tools that require a license.
There are various tools available to test the validity of a PDF/A3 invoice. For example, this one (unfortunately, the tool pages are originally in German, but can be used with a translator).
https://erechnungs-validator.de/
A PDF and an XML file are attached.
Please contact me if you have any questions.
Best regards,
Alexander
... Show more