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Common levels of electronic signatures
Simple electronic signatures (SES)
Simple electronic signatures (SES) is the go-to e-signature solution for low-risk transactions that don't require strong authentication, making it a quick and efficient process. The level of verification used is generally SMS/email OTP before providing consent to signing digitally.
Advanced electronic signature (AES)
The advanced electronic signature, or AES, is a step up from the previous level in terms of reliability and security. It formally identifies signers using the public key infrastructure-based (PKI) digital signature technology. An AES is typically compliant with electronic signature laws across the globe and usually has the following requirements:
- The signature must be uniquely linked to the signer, allowing identification of the signer.
- The signer must have sole control over the means of creating the signature- either credentials, or the signature creation data or device
- The signature must indicate if the data was tampered with after the signature was applied.
Qualified electronic signatures (QES)
Qualified electronic signatures, or QES, are a more stringent form of AES that require the signer to undergo face-to-face identity verification, know your customer (KYC) processes, and other background check procedures before a qualified digital certificate is issued by a qualified trust service provider (QTSP), ensuring the highest level of security and assurance of all electronic signature levels. Under the eIDAS (EU 910/2014) regulation in the European Union (EU), it is stated that a QES is considered equivalent to a wet signature with inherent non-repudiation. Derivative forms of QES are also commonly required by other countries outside the EU, where it's referred to as a regulated electronic signature.
Qualified electronic signatures (QES)
eIDAS-compliance made easy
Most documents typically only require a standard electronic signature to be accepted in the court of law. However, in some countries and industries, certain business transactions may require the inclusion of a qualified digital certificate—this is where the QES comes in.
A closer look at QES
Features
Qualified digital certificate
This certificate is required for QES. It can only be issued by a qualified trust service provider (QTSP) and created by a qualified signature creation device (QSCD).
High-level authentication
QES involves face-to-face identity verification and other discretionary authentication procedures for the signatory. These processes are carried out by the QTSP and often involve submission of government-based ID and biometric information.
EU use
QES is the only signature type in the European Union that's deemed legally equivalent to wet signatures.
Document type
QES offer tamper-free signatures for high-value or high-risk documents.
Benefits
Authentication and non-repudiation
The issue of QES requires signers to be identified and verified thoroughly by a QTSP, making transactions highly secure and the signers accountable upon signing.
Legality
The stringent verification required for this level of electronic signature gives documents signed with QES the same legal validity as traditional paperwork in several countries.
Tamper-proof documents
The qualified digital certificates serve as seals to the signed documents, making them tamper-proof, indicating any changes, and becoming invalid if tampered with.
Use cases
Real estate
- Rental agreements
- Mortgage forms
Finance
- Fund transfers
- Statements of income
Health and pharmaceuticals
- Insurance forms
- Audit documents
Education
- Financial forms
- Loan documents
Legality
Due the stringent steps that are a requirement for QES, several countries accept only QES as the digital equivalent of traditional wet signatures. Some laws that recognize QES are: eIDAS (electronic IDentification, Authentication and Trust Services) (2016) in the European Union; Provisional Measure 2,200-2/01 (2001) in Brazil; the Electronic Identification and Trust Services for Electronic Transactions (Amendment,etc.)(EU Exit) Regulations (2019) in the United Kingdom; and the Federal Law on Electronic Signature (2017) in Switzerland.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only and shall not be construed as legal, regulatory, or any other form of professional advice. Zoho Sign disclaims any liability for any error in the information provided herein. We recommend that you consult your legal counsel for any questions that you may have in this regard.
FAQs
What is an electronic signature?
"Electronic signature" is a broad term that is used to describe any kind of signature that is a digital substitute for a traditional signature. Learn more about electronic signatures.
Are digital signatures and electronic signatures the same?
No, while the terms are used interchangeably, there are some very important differences between digital signatures and electronic signatures. "Electronic signature" is an umbrella term, and "digital signature" is a term that falls under this umbrella. E-signatures have to fulfill additional requirements to qualify as digital signatures, which are typically more secure and come with a digital signature certificate.
Are electronic signatures legally valid?
Yes, but their legality varies from country to country. Look at our legality guide to better understand your country's e-signature laws.
Is Zoho Sign an electronic signature platform?
Yes, Zoho Sign is an e-signature platform that allows you to securely sign documents digitally.
What levels of electronic signature does Zoho Sign provide?
Zoho Sign provides standard electronic signatures (SES), advanced electronic signatures (AES), and qualified electronic signatures (QES), allowing you to authenticate signers before they sign documents and ensuring that documents aren't altered or tampered with in the process. Read more about the levels of electronic signature that Zoho Sign provides here.