E-signature Legality in France
France is a member of the European Union, and as such e-signatures in France are governed by the 2014 Regulation (EU) No 910/2014, known as eIDAS, which oversees digital identity management, authentication, and trust services across the European Union.
eIDAS includes three types of digital signatures: Simple Electronic Signature (SES), Advanced Electronic Signature (AdES), and Qualified Electronic Signature (QES). Each type has different requirements. QES is the most secure and can be considered an acceptable alternative to handwritten signatures under certain conditions.
France’s Civil Code (Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch, BGB) and Trust Services Act (Vertrauensdienstegesetz, VDG) also have provisions governing e-signatures and managing implementation of eIDAS. Written forms are sometimes required, depending on the type of contract, but electronic forms can replace them if they meet certain conditions and provide qualified electronic signatures.
In addition to eIDAS, France’s Civil Code and Decree N° 2017-1416 govern the conditions under which an e-signature is considered valid and outline requirements for devices, software, and service providers that issue e-signatures.
Consult a legal professional to ensure you’re meeting all relevant laws and requirements.
Kaynaklar: