What is a
digital signature?
A digital signature is the modern, secure, and legally binding alternative to signing documents on paper. Learn how digital signatures work, what types exist under European law, and why organizations worldwide are making the switch.
Digital signature vs. wet signature
A wet signature is the traditional method of signing documents with a pen on paper. While familiar, it requires physical presence, is slow to process, and offers limited protection against tampering.
A digital signature is an electronic form of signing that uses cryptographic technology to verify the identity of the signer and ensure the integrity of the document. Under the European eIDAS regulation, qualified digital signatures are legally equivalent to handwritten signatures.
| Aspect | Wet signature | Digital signature |
|---|---|---|
| Medium | Pen on paper | Cryptographic technology |
| Verification | Visual comparison by humans | Automated certificate validation |
| Tampering | Difficult to detect alterations | Any change is immediately detected |
| Speed | Days to weeks (printing, mailing) | Minutes, from any device |
| Storage | Physical filing cabinets | Secure cloud storage with search |
| Legal validity | Universally accepted | Legally equivalent under eIDAS (QES) |
Types of electronic signatures under eIDAS
The European eIDAS regulation (Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services) defines three levels of electronic signatures, each with increasing legal certainty and security requirements.
Simple Electronic Signature
The most basic form of electronic signature under eIDAS. This includes scanned signatures, email confirmations, or clicking an "I agree" button. Easy to use but offers the lowest level of legal certainty. Suitable for low-risk agreements such as internal approvals or general terms acceptance.
Advanced Electronic Signature
An advanced electronic signature is uniquely linked to the signer and capable of identifying them. It is created using data under the signer's sole control and detects any subsequent changes to the signed data. Compliant with eIDAS Article 26, it provides strong legal standing for contracts, HR documents, and financial agreements.
Qualified Electronic Signature
The highest level of electronic signature under eIDAS. A qualified electronic signature is created by a qualified signature creation device and is based on a qualified certificate issued by a trusted service provider. It has the same legal effect as a handwritten signature across all EU member states. Required for real estate transactions, government filings, and other high-stakes documents.
Benefits of digital signatures
Legally binding
Digital signatures carry full legal weight under the eIDAS regulation across all EU member states. A qualified electronic signature is equivalent to a handwritten signature in court.
Faster turnaround
Eliminate the delays of printing, mailing, and scanning. Documents can be signed in minutes rather than days, no matter where the signers are located.
Cost savings
No more expenses for paper, printing, postage, or physical storage. Organizations typically save 60-80% on document handling costs after switching to digital signatures.
Security
Digital signatures use cryptographic technology to ensure document integrity. Any alteration after signing is immediately detectable, providing tamper-proof protection.
How digital signatures work
Upload document
Upload your contract, agreement, or any other document to the ValidSign platform. Supported formats include PDF, Word, and more.
Add signers
Specify who needs to sign, set the signing order, and choose the required signature level and authentication method for each signer.
Sign digitally
Signers receive an invitation and can sign from any device: desktop, tablet, or smartphone. Identity verification happens automatically based on the chosen method.
Receive signed document
Once all parties have signed, everyone receives the completed document with embedded digital certificates and a full audit trail as legal proof.