eIDAS
The eIDAS regulation (Electronic IDentification, Authentication and trust Services) is the European legal framework governing electronic identification and trust services for electronic transactions within the internal market. It establishes rules for electronic signatures, seals, timestamps, and remote identification.
Adopted in 2014 (EU Regulation No 910/2014) and revised by eIDAS 2.0 in 2024, this regulation aims to create a harmonised legal framework for cross-border electronic transactions in Europe. It defines three assurance levels for electronic identification (low, substantial, high) and establishes mutual recognition of identification means between Member States.
eIDAS also governs Qualified Trust Service Providers (QTSPs) that offer services such as qualified electronic signatures, electronic seals, qualified timestamps, and electronic registered delivery services. A qualified electronic signature under eIDAS has the same legal effect as a handwritten signature in all EU Member States.
Version 2.0 of the regulation introduces the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet), which will allow every European citizen to securely store and share their identity data via a mobile application. This major development will profoundly transform identity verification and customer onboarding journeys.
Regulations
Real-world examples
- 1.A solicitor uses an eIDAS qualified electronic signature service to enable clients to sign authentic deeds remotely, with legal effect equivalent to a handwritten signature.
- 2.A bank accepts a substantial-level electronic identification means issued by another EU Member State for account opening, in accordance with the mutual recognition provided by eIDAS.
- 3.A qualified trust service provider issues electronic signature certificates after an identity proofing process compliant with eIDAS high assurance level, including face-to-face or certified video verification.