As of 23 November 2025, it is mandatory to add address details in a structured format to SEPA Credit Transfer and SEPA Direct Debit batches. To facilitate this, a new file format (SEPA XML version 2019) has been made available. Our Abillity® platform already supports this new file format.
Why this new file format?
The new SEPA XML version 2019 format stems from European regulations and further standardization of payment transactions. The key change in this new file format is the capability to add address details in a structured manner when submitting a SEPA payment. This enables the automation of screening SEPA transactions to and from countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA). Adding structured data to SEPA payments contributes to improving payment processes.
What does this mean for my organization?
From 23 November 2025, banks will no longer support unstructured address details. Until then, you can add both unstructured and structured address details to SEPA payments. However, it’s important to check now whether your invoicing system stores address details in a structured manner and take action if not. If you work with Abillity®, you can continue to send and receive payments worry-free. Our platform already supports the new file format.