Electronic Signature (E-Signature)

Electronic signatures are legally recognised in most jurisdictions worldwide. In the US, the ESIGN Act (2000) gives e-signatures the same legal standing as handwritten signatures. In the EU, the eIDAS Regulation (2014) establishes three tiers: Simple Electronic Signatures (SES), Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES), and Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES). In the UK, the Electronic Communications Act 2000 provides similar recognition.

For most business contracts — NDAs, service agreements, proposals, and employment offers — a standard electronic signature (SES) is legally sufficient. QES is only required in specific regulated contexts like real estate transfers or certain government filings in the EU.