How to sign a contract remotely

Signing a contract remotely: it's simple

Thanks to electronic signature, signing a contract remotely takes just a few minutes from anywhere — home, office, while travelling. Same legal value as an in-person signature.

Two scenarios

You are the signatory

You receive an email "You have a document to sign":

• Click the link

• Read the document

• Click "Sign"

• Enter the SMS code you received (for AES)

• Done. You receive a copy by email.

Total time: 2-3 minutes.

You are the sender

You want someone who isn't beside you to sign a contract:

• Prepare the PDF

• Create an envelope on a signature platform

• Add the signatory (name, email, phone number)

• Send

• Track status in real time

What changes compared to in-person signature

Nothing legally — provided:

• you choose the right level (AES recommended for contracts)

• you use an eIDAS-compliant platform

• you preserve the audit trail

Best practices for the signatory

• Verify the sender: does the email really come from someone you know?

• Read before signing: platforms enforce this, but take your time

• Protect your phone: SMS OTP is the key to AES

• Keep the copy received by email

Best practices for the sender

• Set a reasonable expiration date

• Enable reminders

• Explain the procedure to the signatory (if novice)

• Verify the correct email before sending

Legal value

A contract signed remotely with an AES has the same probative force as a contract signed in person. Two-factor identification (email + OTP) and timestamping provide even stronger proof than paper.

See legal validity.

Common use cases

• Employment contract signed before starting work

• Lease with tenant in another city

• Freelance contract with overseas client

• NDA with investor on the other side of the world

• Property sale mandate with expatriate seller

Common mistakes

• Signing without reading

• Clicking on a suspicious email (phishing)

• Not keeping the copy received

• Replying "OK to sign" by email instead of clicking the link

How Certyneo helps you

Certyneo allows you to sign or have others sign remotely in minutes: mobile-first journey, no account needed for the signatory, SMS OTP for AES, instant receipt confirmation by email.

Discover Certyneo's electronic signature solution

FAQ

Is remote signature legal?

Yes, same value as in person if eIDAS compliant.

Do I need a computer?

No, a smartphone is enough.

What if I didn't receive the email?

Check spam, ask the sender to resend.

Can I sign from abroad?

Yes, except verify local law recognition outside the EU.

How much does it cost the signatory?

Nothing. Only the sender pays.

Conclusion

Signing a contract remotely is now as simple and secure as signing in person. No need to wait, travel, or print. A few clicks are enough.

Try Certyneo to send, sign and track your documents online simply, quickly and securely.