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eIDAS Regulation:
The Key Concepts

In this article, you’ll learn not only the key fundamentals of eIDAS and its scope of application but also the benefits for citizens and businesses alike. Discover how eIDAS enables secure digital transactions.

eIDAS

eIDAS in Brief

What is eIDAS?

eIDAS (Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services) is an EU regulation that governs digital identification and trust services throughout Europe. It ensures that citizens and companies can use electronic identification schemes and signatures both securely and across borders. eIDAS not only makes digital exchange more efficient but also more secure by establishing trust in digital processes.

What are the goals of eIDAS?

The main aim of eIDAS is to create a standardised legal framework for secure electronic identification and digital signatures within the EU. It promotes the cross-border use of digital services, increases trust in digital transactions and improves the security of authentication and electronic trust services.This will strengthen the digital single market, reduce bureaucracy and facilitate access to public and private online services.

Where does eIDAS apply?

eIDAS applies in all EU member states. Electronic identifications and trust services regulated by eIDAS are recognised in each of these countries. Systems outside the EU can also be used in compliance with eIDAS to ensure secure exchange with the EU. Countries outside the EU – such as the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway and Iceland – can also use eIDAS-compliant systems to facilitate secure digital exchange.

Advantages of eIDAS – Why It’s So Important

eIDAS entails significant benefits for citizens, businesses and public administrations.

  • Increased security: eIDAS ensures a high level of security for digital transactions by enabling trusted electronic identifications and signatures.
  • Cross-border recognition: citizens and businesses can utilise eIDAS-compliant services in all EU Member States, thereby simplifying digital collaboration across national borders.
  • Enhanced efficiency: the digitalisation and standardisation of processes reduce the time and effort required for paper-based workflows.
  • Trustworthiness: trust in online transactions is promoted by regulated trust services – a crucial factor for business transactions, signing contracts and dealing with authorities.
  • Data privacy and compliance: eIDAS ensures that digital identities and transactions comply with the strictest privacy and security requirements – a positive factor in bolstering user confidence.

That makes eIDAS a key cornerstone underpinning a secure and efficient digital future in the EU.

eID-Screen

What is eID (Electronic Identification)?

An eID (electronic identity) is a digital means by which people or companies can prove their identity online. In the EU, citizens can use their eID to access public and private online services, such as tax declarations or banking services. These identification methods are regulated by eIDAS and guarantee a high level of security and data protection.

What Are the Benefits of the eID?

For private individuals:

  • Secure authentication for online services
  • Cross-border utilisation in the EU
  • Data protection through state-certified digital identity

For companies:

  • Efficient processes for onboarding and contracts
  • Increased fraud protection through verified identities
  • Cost savings and less bureaucracy
  • European business opportunities through harmonised standards
EUDI-Screen

What Is the EU Digital Identity Wallet?

The EU Digital Identity Wallet is an app that enables citizens to securely store and manage their eID. This wallet lets EU citizens and residents do a lot of things digitally: like proving their identity throughout the EU and securely managing various documents, such as driving licences or academic qualifications. The wallet aims to make access to digital services even easier and more secure.

Where and When Can the EU Digital Identity Wallet Potentially Be Used?

The EU Digital Identity Wallet is being tested in various pilot projects to assess its potential for use in everyday situations. Areas of application include access to government services, storing and sharing educational qualifications, secure authentication when travelling, as well as the use of digital travel documents and payment processing. These projects are intended to ensure that the wallet works across borders and makes the everyday lives of EU citizens safer and more efficient.

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eGov Services

A secure digital ID enabling citizens to quickly and reliably verify their identity as part of online citizenship procedures.
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Bank Account Opening

A secure digital ID that facilitates the opening of bank accounts across Europe without requiring a visit to a bank branch.
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Payments

A wallet designed to enable strong customer authentication and transaction linking, fully compliant with PSD2 requirements.
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ePrescription

Pilot projects for national and cross-border eHealth services, granting citizens access to their health information via mobile devices.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About eIDAS

What does eIDAS mean?

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eIDAS is an acronym for electronic identification, authentication and trust services. This EU regulation creates a standardised framework for secure electronic transactions and interactions between companies, citizens and public authorities in the EU member states.

How does eIDAS affect cross-border transactions?

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eIDAS facilitates cross-border transactions by providing a uniform framework that is recognised in all EU member states. This harmonisation simplifies and secures electronic interactions, making it easier for companies to operate internationally.

How exactly can companies benefit from using eIDAS-compliant solutions?

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Companies benefit from increased security and the legal recognition of electronic transactions. eIDAS-compliant solutions optimise processes, reduce administrative work and promote trust between business partners by ensuring the authenticity and integrity of documents.

How can organisations implement eIDAS solutions?

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with trusted service providers and ensuring that their systems meet eIDAS standards. This may include the integration of electronic identification systems and the acceptance of qualified trust services such as electronic signatures.

Is eIDAS also applicable outside the EU?

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Although eIDAS mainly applies to transactions within the EU, its principles might also have an impact on electronic transactions in non-EU countries – especially for countries wishing to align with EU standards for digital services.