What is the difference between an advanced and a qualified digital signature?

Digital signatures are divided into simple, advanced, and qualified (legally valid) signatures. In the case of a simple digital signature, the document is combined with the affixed signature to form a unique fingerprint (hash value).

In addition to the simple digital signature, the advanced digital signature offers the possibility of unambiguous identification of the signatories. The identification can be made, for example, via e-mail address, telephone number, etc.

According to the eIDAS Regulation, a qualified digital signature is legally equivalent to a handwritten signature. However, the signature must be executed using a qualified signature creation device and 2-factor authentication and must also include the name of the signatory. The qualified digital signature requires a one-time identification of the person with an ID card. Learn more