eSignature legality summary
Law 19.799 provides the framework and definitions, distinguishing a simple electronic signature from an Advanced Electronic Signature; the Regulations add technical detail. Both require an Electronic Signature Certificate.
Types of permitted electronic signature
A simple electronic signature is any sound, symbol, or electronic process that lets the recipient at least formally identify the author. An Advanced Electronic Signature is certified by an accredited provider, created with means under the holder’s exclusive control, linked only to them and the data, tamper-evident, and able to verify identity — and can sign any private or public instrument.
Documents that may be signed electronically
Most categories can be signed with a simple electronic signature — HR, procurement, corporate resolutions, NDAs, software licensing, healthcare, banking, real estate, lending, insurance, education, consumer transactions, and many government filings.
Use with caution / not typically appropriate
Certain documents require an Advanced Electronic Signature, and government filings and notarized documents carry restrictions.
- Company incorporation, modification, dissolution, or annotations (require an Advanced Electronic Signature)
- Public documents in electronic format (e.g., Civil Registry or Real Estate Registrar certificates)
- Judicial mandate granted as an electronic document
Seminal court cases
None reported.
Primary sources
- Law 19.799 on electronic documents and signatures
- Decree 181/2002 (Regulations)
- Law 21,180 (Digital Transformation of the State)
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