Why put a GiroCode on invoices?
A GiroCode (SEPA-QR) printed on an invoice allows your customers to complete the transfer with just a few taps. Instead of typing IBAN, amount and payment reference, they simply scan the QR code with their banking app.
The benefits are clear:
- Fewer typing errors thanks to automatic transfer of all payment details.
- Faster payments, especially for invoices with many line items.
- More professional appearance and a modern impression for your customers.
Where should the GiroCode be placed?
In practice a placement in the lower right area of the invoice has proven useful – near the classic payment information. Make sure that the code:
- is clearly visible and not overlapped by other elements,
- has enough white space (quiet zone) around it,
- does not cross fold marks or punching areas if the invoice is printed.
Minimum size of the QR code
To ensure that banking apps can read the QR code reliably, it should have a certain minimum size. In practice an edge length of about 25–35 mm works well. On digital PDFs the code can be displayed smaller, but zooming in makes it readable again.
A sufficient resolution is particularly important if the invoice will be printed. Our generator therefore embeds a high‑quality QR code directly into the invoice PDF.
Mandatory details on an invoice
Regardless of the GiroCode, invoices must contain certain mandatory information (e.g. according to national VAT law), such as:
- full name and address of supplier and customer
- tax number or VAT ID (where applicable)
- invoice date
- consecutive invoice number
- description of goods or services
- date of supply or service
- net amount, tax rate and tax amount
The GiroCode does not replace these details – it is simply aconvenient payment option on top.
Small‑business regulation
If you are subject to a small‑business regulation in your country and do not charge VAT, your invoice must contain an appropriate notice, for example:
“No VAT is charged or shown in accordance with the applicable small‑business regulation.”
This note can be placed in the text of the invoice or in the footer and is required regardless of the GiroCode.
How our PDF tool creates the invoice
Our GiroCode Generator not only creates the QR code but also lets you generate an invoice PDF with an embedded GiroCode. You provide:
- sender and invoice details,
- the target IBAN and optional BIC,
- invoice amount and payment reference (e.g. invoice number).
The app creates a finished invoice PDF directly in your browser and places the GiroCode at the appropriate position. All data is processed locally only and is never sent to a server.