eIDAS Regulation: Simple and Complete Explanation

eIDAS in One Sentence

eIDAS (Electronic IDentification, Authentication and trust Services) is European Regulation No. 910/2014 that unifies the legal framework for electronic signatures, digital identity and trust services in the 27 Member States.

It came into force on 1 July 2016 with direct legal effect in each Member State.

Why eIDAS Was Created

Before 2016, each country had its own law. A signature issued in France was not automatically recognised in Germany.

eIDAS solves three problems:

• Legal fragmentation: a single framework for 27 countries

• Mutual recognition: a signature valid everywhere

• Harmonised levels: three standardised levels (SES, AES, QES)

The Three Signature Levels

• Simple signature (SES): any electronic consent

• Advanced signature (AES): univocal identification + strong authentication

• Qualified signature (QES): AES + qualified certificate + secure device

For details, see simple, advanced, qualified.

Trust Service Providers (TSP/QTSP)

eIDAS creates the status of trust service provider (TSP), which can be qualified (QTSP) if it is audited and registered on the trust list of a Member State. In France, the ANSSI maintains this list (Docaposte Certigna, Universign, CertEurope…).

Mutual Recognition

A signature issued by a French QTSP is automatically recognised throughout the EU. This principle also applies to digital identities: FranceConnect+ will be interoperable with identity wallets of other States under eIDAS 2.0.

Non-Discrimination Principle (Article 25)

Even a simple signature is admissible. The judge assesses the reliability of the procedure, but the digital format alone is not a ground for rejection.

eIDAS 2.0: What Changes

Regulation (EU) 2024/1183 modernises eIDAS with the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDIW). By the end of 2026, each State must provide a mobile application to store identity attestations and sign with a QES.

What It Changes for Your Business

• Sign with EU counterparties without negotiating the framework

• Choose a compliant eIDAS provider

• Prepare for EUDIW (2026-2027)

• Adapt the level to the stakes

How Certyneo Aligns with eIDAS

Certyneo natively issues SES and AES compliant signatures, with PAdES token, timestamping and audit trail. For QES, we interface with European QTSPs.

Discover the Certyneo electronic signature solution

FAQ

Is eIDAS mandatory?

Strongly recommended for any signature with cross-border EU legal value.

Difference between eIDAS and GDPR?

eIDAS governs signatures and identities. GDPR governs data protection. Complementary.

Can I sign with a non-EU provider?

Legally yes, but cross-border recognition is lower.

Does ANSSI certify platforms?

ANSSI qualifies QTSPs (for QES). For SES/AES, it is the provider's eIDAS compliance.

How do I know if a document is signed in QES?

In Adobe Reader: signature properties → level and certificate. See verify a signed document.

Conclusion

eIDAS is the European foundation that makes electronic signatures legally reliable, cross-border and standardised.

Try Certyneo to send, sign and track your documents online simply, quickly and securely.