Electronic signature
An electronic signature in a form means the respondent signs with a finger on mobile or a mouse on desktop — and the signature is stored as an image with their response. The EU eIDAS regulation calls this form a simple electronic signature.
The simple electronic signature is the most basic of the three levels eIDAS distinguishes. Higher levels — advanced and qualified signatures — require identity verification and a certificate, and are typically used where the law explicitly demands them.
In practice, simple electronic signatures are widely used for consents, declarations, handover protocols and everyday commercial contracts. Alongside the signature, the submission time and IP address are stored, which helps document the circumstances of signing.
For acts where the law requires a notarised or qualified signature, a simple electronic signature is not sufficient. When in doubt consult a lawyer — the assessment depends on the type of document.
FAQ
Is signing by finger legally valid?
It is a simple electronic signature under eIDAS, commonly used for contracts and consents. It is not suitable for acts requiring a qualified signature.
What is stored with the signature?
The signature image, submission time and IP address; the signature is also embedded into the generated PDF.
Can several parties sign?
Yes, a form can contain multiple signature fields.
Related
Try Gatherino for free
Free plan: 3 forms and 100 responses a month. No credit card, EU-hosted data.
Get started free →