Are ePUAP, Trusted Profile and e-Delivery box the same thing? We explain the differences
Nowadays, we can handle more and more administrative tasks online. Platforms such as ePUAP, tools such as Trusted Profile Does the e-Delivery service allow citizens to save time and avoid visits to government offices? Although all these services are designed to facilitate communication between citizens and the public administration, they are often confused or considered to be the same thing. In this article, we’ll take a look at the differences between ePUAP, the Trusted Profile, the e-Delivery inbox, and the qualified electronic signature.
What is ePUAP?
ePUAP, or the Electronic Platform for Public Administration Services, is an online platform that allows citizens and businesses to handle official matters online. On ePUAP one can:
- submit applications to the authorities,
- Check the status of their cases,
- Contact public institutions,
- Use ready-made document templates.
To use ePUAP, you need an account, which can be created on the platform's website.
What is a Trusted Profile?
A Trusted Profile is a tool that allows you to confirm your identity online. It is necessary to use many government services online (!) including ePUAP - only applies to public administration. The Trusted Profile works like an electronic signature, which means that we can use it to sign documents and submit applications digitally.
To set up a Trusted Profile, you can:
- confirm it in person at the confirmation point (e.g., at the office),
- set it up online, using online banking (if the bank supports such an option).
The Trusted Profile is valid for 3 years, but can be renewed free of charge.
What is an e-Delivery box?
The e-Communication box is a relatively new service that was introduced as part of the digitization of public administration in Poland. Its purpose is to enable secure electronic exchange of correspondence between citizens, companies and offices. The key features of e-Delivery are:
- The ability to receive official correspondence electronically,
- legal status equivalent to traditional registered mail,
- guarantee of confirmation of receipt of messages.
In order to use e-Delivery, you need to set up a box on the Gov.pl platform, either through applications that support this feature, or through the with the help of the service offered via the platform podpisano.pl.
podpisano.pl enables quick and intuitive establishment of e-Delivery box, combining administrative functionality with a convenient interface. This service is especially useful for those who want to reduce traditional paper correspondence.
What is a qualified electronic signature?
Qualified electronic signature is an advanced digital tool for signing documents in a way that has the legal force equivalent to a handwritten signature. It is issued by accredited certification centers and can be used not only in dealing with public administration, but also in the private sector, such as in business contracts. Possibility obtain a qualified electronic signature also offers a platform podpisano.pl, which provides a quick and convenient process for its insertion.
Qualified electronic signature:
- is chargeable (the cost depends on the supplier),
- requires a special device (token, crypto card or mobile application on a smartphone),
- There are no time limits in applications, such as international.
Unlike Trusted Profile, qualified electronic signatures are recognized throughout the European Union and can be used in situations requiring a higher level of security.
Main differences between ePUAP, Trusted Profile, e-Delivery and qualified electronic signature
- ePUAP: is a platform where you can only handle official matters online.
- Trusted Profile: is a digital identity proofing and document signing tool; it is required to use ePUAP.
- e-Delivery: is a service for receiving and sending official electronic correspondence, independent of ePUAP, which works both in the circulation of public administration and in dealing with business contractors.
- Qualified electronic signature: it advanced document signing tool with legal force throughout the European Union, requiring additional equipment and certification, issued only by the authorized public trust service centers.
Do I have to use all of these tools?
No, using any of these services depends on your needs. If you handle official matters occasionally, you may only need a Trusted Profile and an account on ePUAP. If you care about exchanging correspondence electronically, you may want to consider setting up an e-Delivery box. For more advanced business or international applications, a qualified electronic signature will be the best choice.
In summary, ePUAP, Trusted Profile, e-Delivery and Qualified Electronic Signature are four different elements of digital administration and communication that can complement each other, offering users a wide spectrum of possibilities.