eSignature legality summary
The Digital Signature Law is federal, with provinces and the City of Buenos Aires adopting their own implementing rules. Electronically signed documents are valid, and digital signatures have become compulsory for some matters (e.g., federal court filings). The Civil and Commercial Code addresses the validity and effect of electronically signed documents.
Types of permitted electronic signature
The law distinguishes a general “electronic signature” (any electronic-means signature lacking the enhanced legal requirements; its evidentiary weight varies by method) from a “digital signature” (an enhanced signature under the signer’s sole control, verifiable by third parties for identity and document integrity, using a certificate from an authorized certifier). A digital signature carries a presumption of validity and document trustworthiness, so a challenger bears the burden of proof.
Documents that may be signed electronically
Private parties may use either an electronic or a digital signature; in the public sector electronic signatures are permitted unless a law or the parties’ agreement requires a specific formality or a digital signature.
Use with caution / not typically appropriate
Use care with HR, procurement, chattel paper, and electronic prescriptions (Law 27,553). If a general electronic signature is challenged, the relying party must provide further evidence of validity; a digital signature avoids this.
- Matters where a law requires a specific signing formality or a digital signature
- Documents requiring notarization or a specific public form
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