Glossary
What is a qualified electronic signature?
Short answer
A qualified electronic signature is the highest level under eIDAS: an advanced signature made on a certified signature creation device using a qualified certificate from a trust service provider on an EU trusted list. Article 25(2) gives it the same legal effect as a handwritten signature, and Article 25(3) makes it recognised across all member states. Getting one usually involves an identity check by video, in person or through a national eID.
Updated 25 October 2026
- Qualified electronic signature
- A qualified electronic signature (QES) is an advanced electronic signature created by a qualified signature creation device and based on a qualified certificate for electronic signatures, as defined in eIDAS Article 3(12). It has the equivalent legal effect of a handwritten signature in every EU member state.
What makes a signature qualified
Three things on top of the advanced requirements. First, a qualified certificate, issued by a qualified trust service provider after verifying the signer's identity under Article 24. Second, a qualified signature creation device, certified hardware such as a smart card, a USB token or a remote hardware security module run by the provider. Third, the provider must appear on an EU member state's trusted list.
Belgium's eID card and Estonia's ID card are well-known examples where citizens can create a QES with their national identity card.
Legal effect and when it is required
Under eIDAS Article 25(2), a QES has the equivalent legal effect of a handwritten signature, so the other side cannot argue it is less than a signature. That matters where a law requires 'written form' that only a handwritten or qualified signature can meet.
Examples vary by country: some German employment terms, certain consumer loan and property documents, some public procurement bids and some filings with courts or registries. Most ordinary commercial contracts do not need one.
Cost and friction
A QES takes more effort from the signer. They usually need a one-time identity check by video call, in person or with a national eID, and sometimes an app or a card reader. Providers charge more per signature than for simple signatures. That is the trade-off for automatic legal equivalence.
Sign PDF and qualified signatures
Sign PDF does not provide qualified electronic signatures. We are not a qualified trust service provider and we do not verify identity documents. Our signatures are simple electronic signatures under eIDAS, valid for ordinary contracts and backed by a detailed evidence record. If your document legally needs a QES, use a provider listed on the EU trusted lists. This is not legal advice.
Questions people ask
Is a QES valid outside the EU?
eIDAS recognition applies within the EU and EEA. Elsewhere, a QES is treated under local law, usually as a strong electronic signature, but without automatic equivalence.
How do I check if a provider is qualified?
Look it up on the EU Trust Services List, published by the European Commission, which links to each member state's trusted list.
Do I need a QES to sign an NDA in the EU?
Generally no. NDAs and most commercial contracts can be signed with a simple electronic signature. Check if your specific contract or country says otherwise.
Does Sign PDF offer QES?
No. Sign PDF provides simple electronic signatures only, and says so plainly. Use a qualified trust service provider where a QES is required.
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