GST-Compliant E-Invoice Format Schema

Discover the standard e-invoice format with mandatory fields and structure to ensure seamless
GST compliance for your business.



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Process For E-Invoice Format Schema


Example of e-invoice schema json by bulk e-invoice generation tool

  • Step 1 : First download the bulk e-invoice generation tool from e-invoice portal.

  • Step 2 : Open the downloaded tool in excel. Go to profile tab on bottom of page.

  • Step 3: Enter the seller details like seller GSTIN, seller address, seller location, legal name, sate and pincode. After this select options and then go to einvoice tab.

  • Step 4: Then enter repective details in each section and madatory details like invoice details, buyer details, dispach details, product details etc.

  • Step 5: Then validate the details. If error occurs then correct details and again validate it.

  • Step 6: After the validate the details, then click on prepare json.

  • Step 7: Then do the calculations total item value and total invoice value<./li>

A Comprehensive Guide to E-Invoice Format Schema


The introduction of electronic invoices (e-invoicing) is a modern technological development incorporated into the GST system, which makes the billing processes for entities and tax authorities very convenient too. Therefore, the e-invoice format schema as part of the e-invoicing system introduced on I st Oct 2020 shall provide direct input towards the GST compliant. This page discuss in detail, the structure, compulsory fields, and important aspects of the e-invoice format schema.


What is an E-Invoice Format Schema?

The e-invoice format schema is a predefined standard for creating GST-compliant e-invoices. It includes:


  • Mandatory Fields: Essential details required for the invoice to be valid under GST.

  • Optional Fields: Additional fields for specific business needs.

  • IRN (Invoice Reference Number): A unique identifier for every invoice, generated by the Invoice Registration Portal (IRP).


Key Highlights


  • E-invoicing applies to businesses with turnover exceeding ₹5 crore from August 1, 2023.

  • Maximum number of line items per e-invoice: 1,000 (special cases up to 5,000 line items).

  • E-invoices are submitted to the IRP, validated, and assigned an IRN.


Structure of the E-Invoice Format Schema


The e-invoice format schema contains multiple sections and annexures, detailing all required information for compliance.


Mandatory Sections

  • 1

    Basic Details

    Document type, date, and unique number.

  • 2

    Supplier Information

    GSTIN, legal name, address, and contact details.

  • 3

    Recipient Information

    GSTIN, legal name, address, and place of supply.

  • 4

    Invoice Item Details

    Description, quantity, HSN code, and price of goods or services.

  • 5

    Document Total

    Total taxable value, GST amounts (IGST, CGST, SGST), and total invoice value.


  • Mandatory Sections

  • 1

    Invoice Item Details

    Individual details for each line item, including discounts, unit price, and tax rates.

  • 1

    Document Total Details

    Summary of total values and GST calculations.


How is an E-Invoice Authorized?

  • Data Validation: The invoice data is validated by the IRP to ensure compliance.

  • Generation of IRN: The IRP generates a unique IRN using the supplier’s GSTIN, invoice number, and financial year.

  • Digital Signature and QR Code: The IRP assigns a digitally signed e-invoice and a QR code containing key invoice details.

  • Legal Compliance: An invoice without an IRN is considered invalid under GST law.


GST Info

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Overview of the E-Invoice Format Schema


The e-invoice format schema includes technical and user-friendly details for each field.

Technical Field Name: Unique identifier for each field.

Cardinality: Indicates whether the field is mandatory or optional.

Field Description: Simple explanation of the field’s purpose.

Technical Specifications: Details like maximum length, format, and data type.

Sample Values: Example inputs to guide users.


Mandatory Fields in the E-Invoice Format Schema


The schema includes 30 mandatory fields, such as:

Field Name Specifications Remarks
Document Type Code INV/CRN/DBN Specifies the type of document.
Supplier Legal Name Max length: 100 Must match the PAN card.
Supplier GSTIN Alphanumeric, Max length: 15 GSTIN of the supplier issuing the invoice.
Invoice Number Max length: 16 Unique sequential number for the invoice.
Recipient Legal Name Max length: 100 Buyer’s name as per PAN.
Recipient GSTIN Alphanumeric, Max length: 15 Buyer’s GSTIN.
Place of Supply State Code Enumerated list of states. Must match the state in the recipient’s address.
HSN Code Max length: 8 Applicable HSN code for the goods/services.
GST Rate Decimal (3,2), e.g., 5 GST rate applicable to the item.
Total Invoice Value Decimal (11,2) Total amount including GST.

Benefits of Bulk IRN Cancellation


  • Enter Data: Input all mandatory fields into GST-compliant software like SleekBill.

  • Submit to IRP: The software submits the invoice to the IRP for validation.

  • Receive IRN: The IRP generates an IRN and sends back a digitally signed e-invoice with a QR code.

  • Download and Share: Save the e-invoice in the required format (e.g. PDF) for sharing with recipients.


Benefits of E-Invoice Format Schema


  • Standardization: Ensures uniformity across all invoices.

  • Error Reduction: Automates validation to minimize manual errors.

  • Faster Reconciliation: Simplifies GST return filing with automated data integration.

  • Compliance Assurance: Avoid penalties by adhering to GST norms.


Challenges in E-Invoice Implementation


Complexity for Small Businesses: Adapting to the schema may be overwhelming for smaller entities.

Training Requirements: Employees need to understand the schema and its application.

Technical Barriers: Advanced software is necessary for seamless compliance.


Tips for Smooth E-Invoice Management


  • Choose Reliable Software: Use tools like SleekBill for automated e-invoicing.

  • Validate Data: Double-check details before submission to avoid rejections.

  • Stay Updated: Keep track of GST notifications and schema updates.


Download Your Free GST-Compliant E-Invoice Format

Get the perfect e-invoice template with all mandatory fields pre-formatted. Simplify compliance and streamline your invoicing process today!



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