QES (Qualified Electronic Signature)

The Qualified Electronic Signature (QES) is the highest level defined by the eIDAS regulation. It is legally equivalent to a handwritten signature throughout the European Union. Its issuance requires: prior identity verification, a qualified certificate issued by a QTSP, and the use of a qualified signature creation device (QSCD). It is required for electronic notarial deeds, certain public contracts and sensitive administrative procedures.