MARCH 2026
A small step for Opera, a big step for QWACs: a quiet milestone for European digital security
Quietly but significantly, the Opera browser for Android has added support for QWACs (Qualified Website Authentication Certificates).
Support for QWACs marks a key milestone in the rollout of European regulations on digital identity and online security – particularly the new ETSI TS 119 411-5 standard, published in February 2024. This standard, along with an upcoming implementing act from the European Commission, will set the technical requirements for how browsers recognise and manage qualified certificates.
Small browser, big innovation
Opera may not be one of the world’s most widely used browsers, but it’s notable that it was the first to implement a feature that will soon be mandatory across the board: support for QWACs. And it did so using Chromium – the same engine behind Chrome, Edge and other major browsers.
For now, support is limited to Opera’s mobile version on Android, and specifically to so-called 1-QWACs – certificates issued by root certification authorities already trusted by the browser. It makes sense as a starting point: this is the simplest configuration to implement and manage.
How QWACs Appear in Opera Mobile
The display is deliberately subtle: a small green shield icon appears next to the website address. Tapping it reveals a summary of the certificate details, including the European Trust Mark confirming compliance with eIDAS. Despite the limited screen space on mobile devices, the interface is clean, intuitive and functional.
Looking ahead
Opera’s integration of QWACs may be just a first step, but it’s a strong signal for the future of digital security in Europe. It’s reasonable to expect that other major browsers will follow suit – though likely on a longer timeline.
As a qualified Certification Authority, Actalis is closely monitoring these developments and stands ready to offer compliant solutions while supporting customers throughout the transition.
Learn more about QWACs and available services: