What it means
The NLCIUS CII check flags each XML element with no element children whose text is empty after XML whitespace is normalised. Whitespace-only text counts as empty. Attributes, comments and processing instructions do not prevent an element from being flagged.
Why it matters
An empty element supplies no text value. If the field requires a value, leaving its element empty does not supply the missing information.
How to fix it
Locate the element identified by the warning. If it should contain text, enter its actual value in the source invoice and export it again. If it is optional and unused, omit the element from the export. Do not remove required elements or add text where the CII structure does not allow it merely to clear the warning. If your software keeps producing the element, ask its supplier to check the export. Check the new file again.
Once the file is corrected, check it again for free: Check an e-invoice
The rule as published
Document should not contain empty elements. Where this rule applies
| Rule set | Version |
|---|---|
| NLCIUS (CII) | 1.0.3.13 |
Check your file
Drop your e-invoice to see whether EMPTY-ELEMENT-CHECK still fails, and which other rules do.