Ukraine and the European Union have introduced an updated cooperation plan in the field of electronic identification and trust services. This plan outlines key actions that will allow Ukraine to gain recognition of its electronic trust services by 2026 and achieve a single market for these services by 2027.

«Ukraine is boldly transitioning from candidate country status to an active player in shaping a digital Europe alongside the EU. Even in the face of full-scale aggression, we have not only maintained our course towards digital transformation but have also become the first country outside the EU to be included in the EU Trusted List. The update of our joint plan is another significant signal: our technologies and approaches are valued internationally. Mutual recognition of electronic trust services is a testament to the deep digital integration that Ukraine has achieved through persistent work and partner trust», — stated Valeria Ionan, Deputy Minister for Digital Transformation on Eurointegration.

What this means if the plan is successfully implemented:

• In 2026, the EU will recognize certain Ukrainian electronic signatures, seals, and other trust services, allowing their legal use across 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, utilize electronic services in the EU, and interact with European institutions using Ukrainian electronic signatures.

The process includes several stages, such as assessing Ukrainian legislation, testing cross-border service compatibility, and amending Ukrainian laws. Ukraine has already begun preparations for legislative and infrastructure changes to meet new European standards.

It should be noted that the first joint work plan between Ukraine and the EU in the area of electronic identification and trust services was approved in 2021. In May 2024, the updated eIDAS Regulation came into force, and the finalization of updates to the EU's implementing acts in this area is currently underway.