In an increasingly digital professional environment, electronic signatures have become an essential solution for streamlining processes, saving time, and securing exchanges. They allow you to sign a document remotely, without printing or mailing, while maintaining legal validity depending on the certification level used.
However, not all electronic signatures are created equal. Choosing the right signature level depends directly on the type of document to be signed, the legal context, and the required security level. For any organization, understanding these levels is key to ensuring regulatory compliance, internal process efficiency, and data security.
What are the levels of electronic signature?
The European eIDAS regulation distinguishes three levels of electronic signature: simple, advanced, and qualified.
Simple signature is the most basic. It confirms that a person has accepted certain content but does not reliably guarantee their identity or the document’s integrity. It may be sufficient for internal approvals or low-sensitivity documents.
Advanced signature involves stronger identification. It is uniquely linked to the signer and allows detection of any changes made after the document was signed. It is often used for commercial contracts, HR documents, or quotes.
Qualified signature is the highest level. It requires a qualified digital certificate issued by a state-recognized provider. This is the only type of signature that, by default, has the same legal value as a handwritten signature. It is essential for certain official, legal, or regulated acts.
What is the legal value of electronic signatures?
The legal value of electronic signatures varies according to their level of security. In France and across the European Union, their recognition is governed by the eIDAS regulation.
- A qualified signature enjoys a presumption of reliability and has the same probative value as a handwritten signature.
- An advanced signature is also legally valid, but in the event of a dispute, the burden of proof lies with the party relying on it.
- A simple signature is legally weaker but can be suitable for many informal or internal use cases.
How to choose the right electronic signature level?
The choice depends on:
- The type of document involved,
- Its legal importance,
- The risk in case of dispute,
- Your regulatory obligations.
For example:
- An internal memo can be approved with a simple signature.
- An employment contract or a quote often requires an advanced signature.
- For binding legal acts, only a qualified signature is appropriate.
The electronic signature solution designed for the training sector
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Specially designed for training organizations, the platform allows you to:
- Send attendance sheets or administrative documents in bulk,
- Collect simple or advanced electronic signatures,
- Track reading, sending, and signature status in real time,
- Benefit from secure archiving and centralized access to documents,
- Ensure compliance with quality requirements and funding bodies.
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Signature levels overview
| Signature level | Security | Required identification | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple | Low | Low to medium | Internal documents |
| Advanced | High | Medium to strong | Contracts, HR, training |
| Qualified | Very high | Strict verification | Regulated legal documents |
Common use cases for electronic signatures
- Human resources: employment contracts, payslips, annual reviews
- Professional training: attendance sheets, certificates, internship agreements
- Legal & finance: contracts, quotes, invoices
- Administration & local authorities: official acts, public procurement
Accessible via desktop or mobile, electronic signatures improve team agility and integrate easily with business tools.
How to ensure the security of electronic signatures?
Security relies on:
- Strong authentication (password, SMS, biometrics, etc.),
- Digital certificates issued by trusted providers,
- Secure, GDPR-compliant data storage,
- A regularly updated and certified platform.
Which documents require a qualified signature?
- Notarial deeds
- Lawyer acts
- Major commercial contracts
- Public procurement documents
- Regulated commitments with high legal value
Financial institutions, legal professionals, and public administrations often use them.
conclusion
Electronic signatures are not just a digital gadget — they are a strategic asset for any modern organization. When used correctly, they help you:
- Save time,
- Reduce costs,
- Secure your processes,
- Strengthen legal compliance.
By choosing a solution like Edusign, you can be confident in having a reliable, compliant, and easy-to-integrate tool perfectly suited to your industry.
