What are QES / AES sigantures?

swipesign supports two secure and legally valid types of electronic signatures: Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES) and Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES).

Both meet international standards and ensure the integrity and authenticity of your documents, but they offer different levels of legal assurance.

Advanced Electronic Signature (AES)

An AES is:

• linked to the signer’s identity,
• secured against tampering,
• and traceable through a complete audit trail.

AES signatures are legally valid in many jurisdictions and are commonly used for:

• business agreements
• sales and service contracts
• NDAs
• internal approvals

Qualified Electronic Signature (QES)

A QES offers the highest level of legal certainty. It includes:

• a verified identity check (e.g. via passport or national ID),
• signature creation through a certified trust service provider,
• and compliance with strict legal and technical requirements.

QES is the only type of electronic signature that is legally equivalent to a handwritten signature in many countries. It’s often required for:

• employment contracts
• real estate agreements
• regulated or high-risk legal documents

💡 Which one should I use?

• AES is ideal for most day-to-day documents.
• QES is recommended when higher legal assurance is required or when local laws demand written form.

Still unsure? Get in touch with our team — we’re happy to help.