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Are electronic signatures legally valid?

How electronic signatures in fynk are recognised under eIDAS, and which signature type to choose for which contract.

Written By Sebastian

Last updated 1 day ago

Yes. Electronic signatures are legally recognised in the EU under the eIDAS regulation. A contract can't be denied legal effect just because it was signed electronically.

Available on all plans · QES under fair use

The three signature types

TypeHow it worksTypical use
Simple (SES)Signed with a click or drawn signature, identified by emailMost everyday contracts
Advanced (AES)The signer is uniquely identified, for example via SMSContracts that need stronger proof
Qualified (QES)The signer verifies their identity with a trust service providerContracts that require the written form by law

The simple signature is enough for the vast majority of contracts. For an overview of which method fits which case, see fynk.com/de/signaturmethoden.

How fynk secures signatures

  • The advanced signature in fynk meets the requirements of Article 26 eIDAS.
  • Signers are identified through their email address, name, SMS and browser.
  • fynk stores a SHA256 checksum of each signed document, for both the HTML and the PDF version, so any change is detectable.
  • Signed PDFs are digitally sealed and LTV-compliant with every signature type, including simple signatures, so the signature can still be verified years later.

Good to know

  • Some documents, such as SEPA direct debit mandates, may not be accepted with an electronic signature by banks.
  • If the law requires the written form, use a qualified signature.
  • Legal requirements differ by country and contract type. If you're unsure, ask your legal advisor.
  • An electronic signature is the act of agreeing to a document electronically. A digital signature is the cryptographic method that proves who signed and that the document wasn't changed. Advanced and qualified signatures use it.
  • For more background, see fynk's guide at fynk.com/en/electronic-signature/.

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