Ukrainian electronic signatures now valid in Latvia: new opportunities for business
27 February 05:19
Latvia is the first country in the world to officially recognize Ukrainian qualified electronic signatures (QES) on a reciprocal basis. From 2026, Ukrainian e-signatures included in the European Commission’s Trusted List of Third Countries will be equivalent to handwritten signatures in Latvia. This was reported on the website of the Ministry of Digital Transformation, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
This decision opens up new opportunities for Ukrainian businesses: companies can remotely sign contracts, work with banks, and receive government services without paper bureaucracy.
What does the recognition of QES in Latvia mean?
From now on, Ukrainians and Ukrainian companies can use Latvia’s digital services without having to visit institutions in person.
In particular, this allows them to:
- sign contracts, deeds, and invoices with Latvian partners online;
- communicate with banks and financial institutions;
- apply for state and municipal services remotely;
- conduct business in Latvia entirely in digital format.
You can use “Dія.Підпис-EU” or other Ukrainian electronic signatures that comply with EU standards for your work.
What the Ministry of Digital Transformation said
Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation Zoryana Stetsyuk emphasized that this is an example of the highest level of digital trust between countries.
According to her, this is not just a technical solution, but the creation of a common digital space without barriers for Ukrainians in Europe.
How this became possible
The decision became possible after:
- the update of the Latvian Law “On Electronic Documents”;
- the inclusion of Ukrainian QES in the European Commission’s Trust List of third countries;
- cooperation between the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine and the Ministry of Intelligent Governance and Regional Development of Latvia (VARAM).
Back in 2023, Ukraine recognized European QECs. Latvia responded with a mirror move.
What’s next: integration with the EU
In March 2025, Ukraine and the EU updated their joint plan in the field of electronic identification. It is expected that from 2027, Ukrainian electronic signatures will be recognized in EU countries.
In addition, from the end of 2026, Ukraine plans to join the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI), which will allow Ukrainians to use public services throughout Europe.
Why is this important
Recognition of Ukrainian electronic signatures in Latvia:
- simplifies business operations abroad;
- reduces paperwork;
- accelerates Ukraine’s integration into the EU;
- increases the level of digital trust in Ukrainian services.
This is another step towards Ukraine’s full digital integration with the European space.
