eSignature legality summary
The Law gives a qualified electronic signature the same legal effect as a handwritten signature, while an ordinary electronic signature has legal standing where the Law’s requirements are met. Certification is supervised through a national authority and separate governmental and economic certification authorities, the latter authorizing private-sector trust service providers.
Types of permitted electronic signature
The Law recognizes an electronic signature (electronic data associated with a document used to verify the signatory’s identity and consent) and a qualified electronic signature — based on a qualified certificate, uniquely linked to and identifying the signatory, created with a secure signature-creation device under their sole control, and tamper-evident. Only the qualified signature is equivalent to a handwritten signature.
Documents that may be signed electronically
Commonly suited to commercial agreements, NDAs, procurement and bid documents, employment and HR paperwork, and banking documents where no special form is required.
Use with caution / not typically appropriate
Use a qualified signature, issued via an accredited provider, for high-value, regulated, or government-facing matters. Where civil or commercial law requires an authentic (notarial) deed or a particular form, follow that method.
- Wills and inheritance documents
- Marriage and family-law contracts
- Acts requiring an authentic (notarial) deed, including certain real-property transfers
- Matters that law reserves for a specific form or official authentication
Seminal court cases
None reported.
Primary sources
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