What is the difference between an advanced and a qualified electronic signature?
An advanced electronic signature (AES) is uniquely linked to the signer, capable of identifying them, and created using data under the signer’s sole control. A qualified electronic signature (QES) goes further — it is created with a qualified electronic signature creation device and backed by a qualified certificate issued by a qualified trust service provider (QTSP). Under the eIDAS Regulation, only a QES has the legal equivalence of a handwritten signature across all EU member states.
What makes a provider “qualified” for issuing electronic signatures?
A qualified trust service provider must be officially recognized and listed on a national Trusted List within the European Union, as required by the eIDAS Regulation. These providers undergo rigorous conformity assessments by accredited auditing bodies before receiving qualified status. Being on a national Trusted List is the key indicator that a provider meets the legal and technical standards required to issue qualified certificates and qualified electronic signatures.
How can I verify that a provider is an officially recognized QTSP?
You can verify any provider’s qualified status by checking the EU Trusted Lists portal, which is maintained by the European Commission. Each EU member state publishes its own Trusted List, and these are aggregated into a single searchable database. If a provider does not appear on this list, they cannot legally issue qualified electronic signatures under eIDAS.
What types of documents typically require a qualified electronic signature?
A QES is generally required for high-stakes or legally sensitive documents, including:
- Notarial acts and court submissions
- Real estate and property transfer agreements
- Employment contracts in regulated sectors
- Financial and banking agreements requiring strong authentication
- Documents submitted to public authorities in certain EU jurisdictions
The specific requirements depend on national law and the sector involved, so always verify the signature level required before proceeding.
Is Evrotrust a qualified trust service provider?
Yes, Evrotrust is a qualified trust service provider (QTSP) listed on the Bulgarian national Trusted List and recognized across the European Union under the eIDAS Regulation. Evrotrust offers both advanced and qualified electronic signatures through its platform, enabling users to sign documents securely and with full legal validity. The Evrotrust application allows users to complete the entire signing process remotely using their mobile device.
Can I use an advanced or qualified eSignature from a provider in one EU country for documents in another?
Yes. One of the core principles of the eIDAS Regulation is cross-border recognition: a qualified electronic signature issued by a QTSP in any EU member state must be legally accepted in all other member states. Advanced electronic signatures may also be recognized, depending on the applicable national legislation and the context of use. This makes it important to choose a provider that holds qualified status under eIDAS if you operate across multiple EU jurisdictions.
What do I need to obtain a qualified electronic signature through Evrotrust?
To obtain a qualified electronic signature via Evrotrust, you generally need to:
- Download and install the Evrotrust application on a compatible mobile device.
- Complete a remote identity verification as part of the onboarding process.
- Receive a qualified certificate issued to you personally by Evrotrust as a QTSP.
The identity verification step is mandatory under eIDAS rules, as a qualified certificate must be tied to a verified individual. Once your identity is confirmed and your certificate is issued, you can begin signing documents directly through the Evrotrust app.
How do advanced and qualified eSignatures differ in terms of legal weight?
An advanced electronic signature provides strong evidence of the signer’s identity and intent, but its legal equivalence to a handwritten signature depends on national law and the specific context. A qualified electronic signature, by contrast, is granted full legal equivalence to a handwritten signature throughout the EU under eIDAS, with no room for national authorities to reject it solely on the grounds of its electronic form. For documents where legal certainty is critical, a QES is the recommended choice.
