Qualified electronic signature

What is a qualified electronic signature?

A qualified electronic signature is an advanced electronic signature created using a qualified electronic signature creation device and based on a qualified certificate. Under the eIDAS Regulation, it has the equivalent legal effect of a handwritten signature.

Requirements and use

A qualified electronic signature is the highest level of electronic signature defined by the eIDAS Regulation. It is used particularly in situations where legislation, contractual terms or the nature of a particular act require a high degree of assurance regarding the signatory’s identity and the way in which the signature was created.

Using a verified identity, a qualified electronic timestamp or a qualified electronic seal does not by itself mean that a particular person’s signature is a qualified electronic signature. These are different mechanisms with different functions.

See the overview of electronic signatures, advanced electronic signatures and their legal validity.