New Developments in Electronic Identification Between Ukraine and the EU
Ukraine and the EU have established a new joint plan regarding electronic identification and trust services. This plan outlines essential actions that will allow Ukraine to gain recognition for its electronic trust services by 2026 and achieve equal access to the EU's internal market by 2027.
«We are confidently transitioning from candidate status to a country that, alongside the EU, shapes the digital future. Even during the full-scale invasion, we have maintained our commitment to digital transformation and have become the first country outside the EU to be included in the EU Trusted List. The update of this joint plan sends a clear message: our experience, technologies, and approach are highly valued. Mutual recognition of electronic trust services reflects the deep digital integration we have achieved through consistent efforts and the trust of our partners», — stated Valeria Ionan, Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation for European Integration.
What this means, assuming successful implementation of the plan:
- By 2026, the EU will recognize specific Ukrainian electronic signatures, seals, and other trust services, allowing for their legal use in Europe.
- From 2027, all Ukrainian electronic identification means and trust services will be automatically recognized in the EU on par with European ones.
This will enable Ukrainians to seamlessly sign documents and use electronic services in the EU, utilizing their Ukrainian electronic signatures.
The process involves several stages, including assessing Ukrainian legislation, testing cross-border service compatibility, and amending Ukrainian laws. Ukraine has already begun preparations to adapt its legal framework and infrastructure to comply with new European standards.
It should be noted that the first joint work plan in the field of electronic identification and trust services between Ukraine and the EU was approved in 2021. The updated eIDAS Regulation will come into effect in May 2024, and the finalization of the EU's implementation acts in this area is ongoing.