Qualified Electronic Signature: An efficient alternative to certifications and Apostilles

In discussions with lawyers, notaries, and fiduciaries, a recurring topic arises: signature certifications or the need for an apostille (a certificate authenticating the origin of a public document) for individuals living abroad. It is often overlooked that there is an efficient alternative to traditional certification: self-certification through a qualified electronic signature (QES). This modern solution not only simplifies processes but also enables significant time and cost savings, particularly valuable in fields with strong international ties.

What does this mean in practice?

By using a qualified electronic signature with a qualified electronic timestamp, compliant with Swiss electronic certification regulations (as outlined by ZertES), a scanned and digitized handwritten signature can be legally recognized – for example, under the commercial register ordinance (HRegV). In other words, this self-certification replaces certification by an official authority or notary, as well as an apostille. For instance, an entrepreneur can sign contracts or update records without the need for lengthy and costly physical procedures.

Why is this relevant?

Many businesses and individuals, particularly those with international connections, can save time and money with this procedure. Moreover, it is a simple and legally secure solution that can be used anywhere. A practical example: a company needing to register changes to the commercial register quickly can complete the entire process digitally without interrupting operations.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Electronic Self-Certification

1. What is electronic self-certification?
   It is a process where an individual validates their signature through a qualified electronic signature with a timestamp.
2. What are the benefits of this solution?
   • Time-saving: No need for physical presence at a certification office.
   • Cost-efficient: Lower costs compared to certifications and apostilles.
   • Flexibility: Usable worldwide.
3. How is this solution implemented?
   Our platform relies on two key tools to make electronic self-certification accessible, simple, and secure: DeepID and DeepSign.

DeepID: Secure and Compliant Digital Identification

DeepID is our advanced digital identification system designed to verify user identities quickly and in compliance with Swiss and European regulations.

• How it works: The user uploads their identification document and follows a straightforward verification process, which may include facial recognition and document authenticity checks.
• Benefits: Enhanced security, time savings, and full legal compliance.

DeepSign: The One-Click Qualified Electronic Signature

Once identification is completed with DeepID, DeepSign enables users to sign documents with a qualified electronic signature and a qualified timestamp.

• How it works: Users upload the document to be signed on our platform. DeepSign securely and instantly generates and applies the qualified signature.
• Benefits: Fully digital processes, guaranteed legal validity, and immediate application.

This combination of tools allows our clients to complete the entire electronic self-certification process within minutes, ensuring both legal compliance and a seamless user experience.

A Decisive Competitive Advantage

The adoption of innovative tools like DeepID and DeepSign positions us as leaders in the digitalization of legal and administrative processes. While many industry players still rely on traditional methods, our solution provides a modern alternative that enables clients to operate with efficiency and flexibility.
For example, one of our international clients finalized a major agreement in just 24 hours using DeepSign, completely eliminating the need for physical shipments and significantly reducing operational costs.

Conclusion

With tools like DeepID and DeepSign, we are revolutionizing how businesses and professionals handle signature and document certification. This solution not only simplifies bureaucratic processes but also highlights our commitment to offering clients advanced, fully compliant technologies.

Want to learn more? Visit our website or contact us today for a personalized demo!

This blog article does not constitute legal advice, it is made available “as is” and makes no claim to completeness or accuracy. Hoop makes no warranty or liability as to its content. This is excluded to the extent permitted by law. Use is at your own risk. Legal advice is recommended if necessary.