UBL 2.1 and UBL 2.3 are versions of the XML standard used to structure invoice data. Peppol BIS Billing 3.0 is not a UBL version; it is a profile with additional rules for e-invoices exchanged through Peppol. First check what the recipient supports, then determine whether you need only a UBL file or also a Peppol profile.
Differences at a glance
| Item | UBL 2.1 | UBL 2.3 | Peppol BIS Billing 3.0 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | UBL XML version | UBL XML version | E-invoice profile and rules |
| Use in SnelUBL | Available output | Available output | Not a separate output version in the selector |
| Main question | Does the package support UBL 2.1? | Does the package support UBL 2.3? | Must the invoice be exchanged through Peppol under that profile? |
| Review | SnelUBL validates before export | SnelUBL validates before export | Additional profile checks may be required |
How to choose
- Check which UBL version the receiving accounting package accepts.
- Select UBL 2.1 or UBL 2.3 in SnelUBL based on that package requirement.
- Review the recognized invoice data and amounts before export.
- Separately check whether the recipient uses Peppol and which profile requirements apply.
- Do not treat a passed basic check as proof of full Peppol validation.
The free UBL validator checks XML, namespaces, core fields and basic arithmetic. It does not claim full EN 16931 or Peppol BIS Billing 3.0 Schematron validation.
Where SnelUBL fits
SnelUBL converts PDF, DOCX and image invoices to UBL 2.1 or UBL 2.3. You can review and correct the data before export. SnelStart supports direct export from SnelUBL; for Exact Online, AFAS, Moneybird, e-Boekhouden.nl, Twinfield and Yuki, download the UBL file and follow the package's import instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Is Peppol BIS Billing 3.0 the same as UBL 2.3?
No. UBL 2.3 is a UBL XML version. Peppol BIS Billing 3.0 is a profile with additional rules for exchange through Peppol.
Is UBL 2.3 always better than UBL 2.1?
Not automatically. The right version is the one supported or requested by the receiving accounting package.
Does SnelUBL create UBL 2.1 and UBL 2.3?
Yes. Both versions are available and validated before export.
Does a valid UBL file guarantee Peppol acceptance?
No. Additional profile and exchange rules may apply beyond valid XML and UBL structure.
Is Peppol mandatory for Dutch B2B invoices?
The Dutch government plans mandatory B2B e-invoicing from 1 July 2030, but the law has not yet been enacted. Base preparation on current legislation and the recipient's requirements.
Read next: What is UBL?, Peppol explained and e-invoicing from 2030.
Last updated: 2 October 2026.