eSignature legality summary
A written signature is not required for a valid contract (Civil Code Art. 207), and a document is not denied effect merely for being electronic (Law on Electronic Documents, Art. 8). A QES equals a handwritten signature; a simple electronic signature is appropriate only where a law allows it or the parties agreed in advance (by wet-ink signature) to use electronic signatures.
Types of permitted electronic signature
Ukraine recognizes a simple electronic signature; an advanced electronic signature (created by cryptographic conversion with a personal key uniquely associated with the signatory, enabling identification and integrity detection); and a QES (an AES created by a qualified device and based on a qualified certificate).
Documents that may be signed electronically
A simple electronic signature suits commercial agreements (NDAs, procurement, sales) and consumer agreements — but only where a law permits it or the parties pre-agreed in writing.
Use with caution / not typically appropriate
A QES is required for acts by public authorities, electronic filings/reporting to the state, internal electronic document management, promissory notes, transaction documentation (invoices, acceptance acts), and notarized documents.
- Certificates of inheritance
- Documents that by law may exist only as a single original (absent centralized electronic storage)
Seminal court cases
None reported.
Primary sources
- Law on Electronic Trust Services (No. 2155-VIII)
- Law on Electronic Documents and Electronic Document Circulation (No. 851-IV)
- Civil Code of Ukraine
Disclaimer: This guide is general information, not legal advice, and is not a guarantee that any signature will be enforceable for a particular document, transaction, or jurisdiction. E-signature and data-protection laws change frequently. Confirm the requirements for your specific document and parties, and consult a licensed lawyer in the relevant country before relying on electronic signing.
Last reviewed: June 15, 2026