Concept Definition
What is eIDAS?
eIDAS (Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services) is EU Regulation 910/2014 establishing a legal framework for electronic identity and trust services across the EU. It defines legal standards for electronic signatures, seals, timestamps, and registered electronic delivery services, all relevant to e-invoicing compliance.
What trust services does eIDAS define?
eIDAS defines qualified and non-qualified versions of several trust services:
- Electronic signatures: Simple, advanced, and qualified.
- Electronic seals: For legal entities. Simple, advanced, and qualified.
- Electronic time stamps: Trusted timestamps from accredited TSAs.
- Registered electronic delivery services: Legally certified delivery with proof of sending and receipt.
- Website authentication certificates: Qualified certificates for website identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is eIDAS 2.0 relevant to e-invoicing?
- eIDAS 2.0 (EU Regulation 2024/1183) updates the original framework and introduces the European Digital Identity Wallet. For e-invoicing, the key change is expanded recognition of qualified trust services and improved cross-border interoperability of electronic signatures.
- Does eIDAS apply outside the EU?
- eIDAS applies within the EU. Third-country trust services can be recognized by EU member states through bilateral agreements or by being listed in the EU Trust Service List by a member state. Many non-EU businesses use eIDAS-compliant service providers to ensure their signatures are recognized in EU transactions.