Electronic signing is no longer a question of if – but how.
If your organisation uses digital signatures, understanding the eIDAS Regulation is essential. eIDAS forms the legal foundation for electronic signatures across the EU and EEA – defining how identity, intent and document integrity must be established.
This guide explains eIDAS in practical terms: the signature levels, legal implications, implementation considerations and what eIDAS 2.0 means for the future.
eIDAS (Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services) is the EU regulation governing electronic identification and trust services.
It establishes a harmonised legal framework that ensures electronic signatures, seals and timestamps are recognised across all EU member states and the EEA.
This means that a properly executed electronic signature in one EU country has legal standing in another – enabling cross-border digital transactions and secure electronic agreements.
Digital signatures reduce administrative burden, accelerate contract cycles and improve documentation. But the key question remains:
Is it legally enforceable?
Under eIDAS, electronic signatures can be legally valid. However, the level of evidential strength depends on the type of signature used and the risk associated with the transaction.
Proper implementation ensures:
The most basic form of electronic signature.
SES may be sufficient where evidential requirements are limited.
AES is uniquely linked to the signer and capable of identifying them.
For most business transactions, AES provides the appropriate balance between usability and legal assurance.
QES is the highest level under eIDAS and requires a qualified trust service provider and a qualified certificate.
QES has the equivalent legal effect of a handwritten signature throughout the EU.
It is typically required only in highly regulated sectors or where explicitly mandated by law.
The choice should be based on proportionality – matching the signature level to the transaction risk and regulatory context.
The goal is not to choose the highest level – but the most appropriate level.
An electronic signature is more than a visual mark. Its legal strength lies in documentation.
A robust digital signing solution should document:
This evidential package is what ensures enforceability in case of dispute.
eIDAS 2.0 strengthens the European digital identity infrastructure and introduces the EU Digital Identity Wallet.
The existing signature levels (SES, AES, QES) remain unchanged. Businesses do not need to wait – but they should ensure their processes are future-ready and compatible with upcoming identity frameworks.
Mature implementation is about integration – not just sending documents for signature.
eIDAS is the legal foundation for electronic signatures in Europe. Businesses should implement digital signing proportionally – balancing risk, compliance and operational efficiency.
Digital signing is not about maximum security at all times – it is about appropriate security for each use case.
Yes. eIDAS provides the legal framework for electronic signatures across the EU and EEA. When implemented correctly, electronic signatures can be legally enforceable.
No. QES is typically required only in highly regulated environments. For most business agreements, AES is sufficient.
No. The current regulation remains valid. eIDAS 2.0 enhances digital identity infrastructure but does not replace existing signature levels.
Understanding the regulation is one thing. Implementing compliant and scalable digital signing processes is another. If you would like to explore how your organisation can align with eIDAS and future-proof your signing strategy, we are ready to support you.
