Simple electronic signature is a basic type of eSignature most commonly used for documents that do not have stringent legal form requirements and carry minimal liability risk.
SES eSignatures serve as digital affirmations, functioning similarly to a scanned image of a signature, clicking an "I accept" button, or simply typing your name.
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ZertES Signature Solution
Achieve Switzerland-wide compliance with QES signatures
Sign.Plus is your all-in-one solution for ZertES-compliant signatures, including Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES), ensuring full legality across Switzerland. With advanced encryption and robust identity verification, Sign.Plus secures every transaction while meeting the highest ZertES standards for businesses of all sizes.
Whether using API, computer, or mobile, Sign.Plus enables seamless QES signing with full compliance under ZertES regulations.
QES with Sign.Plus
Qualified eSignatures with Sign.Plus
In contrast to eIDAS, ZertES specifically mandates a qualified electronic timestamp in conjunction with the QES and primarily focuses on regulating the obligations of providers offering certification services. To comply with the law, electronic signatures must be supported by qualified certificates issued by a certification service provider (CSP). A CSP is defined as a provider of trust services that fulfills the specifications in the ZertES Regulation.
Sign.Plus partners with Swisscom Trust Services, a recognized CSP, to issue Qualified Electronic Signature (QES) certificates. Users have the option to choose Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) when creating signature requests via Sign.Plus. They will be redirected to a Swisscom page for identity verification before they can sign via Sign.Plus.
Want to check your document's integrity? Use the validator on the page for Federal Authorities of the Swiss Confederation.
Sign.Plus is legally valid under EU and Swiss law
The legality of electronic signatures in the European Union is governed by the eIDAS regulation. In Switzerland, the corresponding legislation is the Federal Act on Electronic Signatures, also known as the ZertES regulation.
If you are in the European Union and wish to learn more about eIDAS regulation, visit the eIDAS Signature page.
Secure documents during signing and beyond
Sign.Plus ensures you have all the necessary elements for a legally compliant eSignature, eliminating the need to deal with third-party providers or extra services.
Trust Service Provider (TSP)
We use signature certificates issued by recognized Trust Service Providers (TSPs).
Identity Provider (IDP)
We provide a range of identification methods, supported by established Identity Providers (IDPs).
Updated Regularly
We continually adapt to market developments, ensuring we stay current with all technical and legal changes.
ZertES Signature API
With the ZertES compliant signature API, you can send documents for signature directly from your own platform, whether that’s a CRM, HR system, or custom workflow.
Tamper-Proof Audit Trails
Secure logs capture all activity, including names, IP addresses, and devices, ensuring every action is traceable and unalterable.
Enterprise-Grade Security
Protect data with comprehensive security measures, including robust encryption, strict access controls, real-time threat detection, and regular penetration testing.
How to obtain QES with Sign.Plus?
QES requires identity authentication before a digital certificate is issued. Users must electronically verify their identity during the signing process when prompted.
1
Prepare Your Document
Access your Dashboard. Click on Sign, and follow the prompted steps.
When you reach the Add Fields stage, prepare your document by adding necessary fields for your signer to complete.
2
Choose QES as eSignature Level
Before clicking Confirm, find E-Signature Level option at the top right of your page.
Select Qualified Signature (QES) for compliance with eIDAS or ZertES regulations.
3
Send or Sign Your Document
Click on Send.
Signers receiving your document will be redirected to our Swisscom partners' website for additional verification steps.
Types of eSignatures
eSignature meanings and types in Switzerland
Similar to eIDAS, ZertES recognizes three types of electronic signature: simple electronic signature (SES), advanced electronic signature (AES), and qualified electronic signature (QES), each offering different levels of legality and security. Sign.Plus offers each level of legal validity from a single source, ensuring your needs are fully met.
Basic
SES
Simple electronic signature
Confirm signature with a click.
- Service contract
- Privacy policy
- Employment contract
- Purchase orders
- Permanent rental contract
High
AES
Advanced electronic signature
One-time password.
- Non-disclosure agreement
- Rental agreement
- Copyright contract
- Partnership agreements
- Personal insurance
Maximum
QES
Qualified electronic signature
Signature with additional ID.
- Audit report
- Bank account opening
- Consumer loan contract
- Consumer credit contracts
- Temporary rental contracts
Simple electronic signature (SES)
Advanced electronic signature (AES)
Advanced electronic signature is a specialized type of eSignature that meets a certain regulatory criteria to provide enhanced authenticity and security.
AES eSignatures feature a higher level of signer ID verification, uniquely linking the electronic signature to the signer and safeguarding the integrity of their signature.
Qualified electronic signature (QES)
A qualified electronic signature is the only type of eSignature granted special legal status in EU member states, deemed as the legal equivalent to a handwritten signature. It represents the highest standard of eSignature legally recognized in courts.
This specific form of eSignature must meet advanced electronic signature requirements and additionally be certified by a trust service provider. Such providers must be listed on the EU Trusted List (ETL) and accredited by an EU member state, ensuring both the authenticity of the signed document and the identity of the signer.
Upgrade to an ZertES signature solution
Sign.Plus delivers Advanced and Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) under ZertES, backed by robust encryption and user-friendly workflows. Save time, secure every transaction, and avoid relying on third-party providers—finalize legally valid agreements across Switzerland with complete peace of mind.
Seamless integration is supported through the ZertES API, making it easy to incorporate compliant workflows into existing systems, from CRM to HR platforms. Cross-platform accessibility ensures users can sign from anywhere on any device, while strong identity verification processes provide maximum legal protection. Thousands of businesses already benefit from tamper-proof eSignatures—elevate digital transactions today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does ZertES compare to the eIDAS regulation in the EU?
ZertES and eIDAS have similarities in setting assurance levels for electronic signatures. However, differences exist due to Switzerland being outside the EU. Certificates produced under Swiss law do not automatically comply with eIDAS, making it crucial for businesses to ensure compliance with both regulations when operating in Switzerland.
What types of electronic signatures are recognized under ZertES?
Are electronic signatures legally binding in Switzerland?
Yes, electronic signatures compliant with ZertES are legally binding and carry the same legal weight as handwritten signatures when the required type of signature is used.
DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only, and Sign.Plus cannot guarantee that all the information on this site is current or accurate. This is not intended to be legal advice and should not be a substitute for professional legal advice. For legal advice, consult a licensed attorney regarding your specific legal questions.
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Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft
Confédération Suisse
Confederazione Svizzera
Confederaziun Svizra
Swiss Confederation
Innosuisse - Swiss Innovation Agency
Confédération Suisse
Confederazione Svizzera
Confederaziun Svizra
Swiss Confederation
Innosuisse - Swiss Innovation Agency
