eIDAS
What Is eIDAS?
eIDAS (Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services) is a European Union regulation that establishes a standardized framework for secure electronic interactions across EU member states. Implemented in 2014 and fully effective since 2016, eIDAS creates a common foundation for electronic signatures, digital identities, and other trust services throughout Europe.
Key Components of eIDAS
Electronic Identification (eID)
Cross-border recognition: EU member states must recognize electronic identification from other member states
Assurance levels: Three security levels (low, substantial, high) for identity verification
Interoperability framework: Common technical standards ensuring eIDs work across borders
Notification process: Formal recognition of national eID schemes at EU level
Mutual recognition: Ensures citizens can use their eID to access public services throughout the EU
Trust Services
Electronic signatures: Digital equivalents to handwritten signatures (simple, advanced, and qualified)
Electronic seals: Digital seals for legal entities ensuring data origin and integrity
Timestamps: Certified proof of time when a document existed in a specific form
Website authentication: Certificates verifying website identity and ownership
Electronic registered delivery: Secure message delivery with proof of sending and receiving
Qualified Trust Service Providers (QTSPs)
Strict requirements: Advanced security and operational standards
Supervisory bodies: Oversight by designated national authorities
EU Trust Lists: Official registers of qualified service providers
Common liability rules: Harmonized rules on responsibility and liability
Compliance audits: Regular verification of security measures and procedures
Benefits of eIDAS Compliance
For Businesses
Legal certainty: Same legal status for electronic transactions as paper-based processes
Reduced costs: Streamlined electronic processes replacing paper workflows
Cross-border operations: Simplified business activities across EU member states
Standardization: Common technical standards reducing implementation complexity
Increased security: Robust framework for secure digital transactions
For Public Sector
Digital government services: Foundation for comprehensive e-government initiatives
Administrative efficiency: Reduced paper-based processes and manual verification
Cross-border collaboration: Seamless interaction between EU public administrations
Citizen access: Improved accessibility to public services across the EU
Trust infrastructure: Reliable framework for secure digital public services
For Citizens
Digital access: Use national eID to access services across all EU member states
Simplified procedures: Reduced administrative burden when dealing with authorities
Enhanced privacy: Strong data protection requirements
Convenience: Remote access to services without physical presence
Trust and security: Higher confidence in online transactions
eIDAS 2.0: The Future Evolution
The proposed eIDAS 2.0 regulation (introduced in 2021) aims to address limitations in the original framework and respond to technological developments:
European Digital Identity Wallet: Personal digital wallet for storing identity credentials
Broader scope: Extension to private sector service providers
Qualified electronic attestations: Framework for verifiable credentials
Remote identification: Standards for secure remote onboarding
Stronger security requirements: Enhanced cybersecurity measures for trust services
Important Considerations for Implementation
Organizations dealing with electronic identification and trust services in the EU should:
Understand the different levels of electronic signatures and their legal implications
Evaluate which trust services are necessary for their specific business processes
Consider using qualified trust service providers for maximum legal certainty
Stay informed about the evolution of eIDAS 2.0 and its implementation timeline
Implement technical solutions that meet eIDAS standards and specifications
eIDAS creates a comprehensive legal and technical framework enabling secure and seamless electronic interactions across Europe, establishing trust in the digital single market and facilitating cross-border digital transactions.
Learn more about the regulation on the eIDAS website.