Qualified Electronic Seal
The qualified electronic seal is a safe solution, recognised everywhere in the European Union, which you can use to guarantee the services offered by your organisation!
Get a quoteWhat is a qualified electronic seal?
A qualified electronic seal is a safe, legal digital method for an organisation to ensure the integrity and authenticity of the documents it issues. It works as a digital equivalent of the classic seal, and is intended for legal entities.
What is the difference between an electronic seal and an electronic signature?
The electronic seal and the electronic signatureare key digital solutions, but they have different purposes.
The electronic signature is associated to an individual, and it guarantees the signatory’s identity and intention to sign the document.
The seal, on the other hand, is associated to a legal entity, and it certifies that the issued documents originate from that company and have not been changed.
Why do you need a qualified electronic seal?
An electronic seal is key for any organisation that wants to:
- Issue legally recognised electronic invoices.
- Ensure the authenticity of certificates, contracts or other official documents.
- Simplify digital communication with public institutions and business partners.
What does the electronic seal guarantee?
How does an AlfaSign seal kit work?
To use an AlfaSign seal kit, you need to:
- Purchase a qualified seal.
- We configure the solution for your needs on a token.
- Connect the token to a computer via a USB port.
- Enter a PIN associated with the token to access the qualified seal stored on the device.
- Upload the digital documents that will be electronically signed with the signing software.
- Using the qualified seal on the token, the software will apply the electronic seal on the document, thus guaranteeing its integrity and authenticity.
- The signed and sealed document is digitally saved, usually as a PDF or a P7S file.
Benefits of the electronic seal for your business
The electronic seal brings you more safety and less time wasting. Here is a full list of the benefits of this service:
Reduces administrative costs associated with processing hard-copy documents.
Complies with European and international regulations.
Full protection against fraudulent changes.
Quick signing and checking of official documents.
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AlfaSign guarantee
When you purchase an AlfaSign seal, you have guaranteed quality and safety of your documents! Moreover, AlfaSign provides you with:
Frequently asked questions
What documents can an electronic seal be applied on?
The seal can be applied on a wide range of official and commercial documents. These include:
- Electronic invoices: It guarantees the authenticity and integrity of the digital invoices.
- Certificates and reports: Used for documents issued by institutions or companies.
- Commercial contracts: To validate and protect legal agreements between parties.
- Tender documentation: Ensures compliance and security in tender processes.
- Official statements and minutes: In your relationships with public institutions or business partners.
The seal is used especially on documents that need to reflect originating from a specific organisation, and which need to be protected against unauthorised changes.
Is the electronic seal valid outside the EU?
Yes, but under certain conditions. Outside the EU, the validity of the seal depends on the specific local legislation. For example:
- In the US, it can be accepted, but rules vary from one state to another and depending on the local legal framework.
- In other countries, you should check whether the local legislation recognises qualified electronic seals as a means to provide legal authentication.
In general, collaboration with partners from third countries can require explaining the lawfulness and the validity of the electronically sealed document, and sometimes it may be necessary for you to provide additional details about the qualified certificate that you use.