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Certyneo
Practical Guide

Sign a document on iPhone and iPad

You receive a contract to sign while you're traveling? From your iPhone or iPad, you can sign in a few seconds, in full compliance, without printing or scanning.

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Legal value & compatibility

Signing from an iPhone or iPad has exactly the same legal value as a signature made on a computer. Be careful not to confuse: "markup" or annotation of a PDF in Apple's Files or Mail app draws an image but does not constitute an enforceable electronic signature. For recognized proof, you sign via a compliant platform, in the browser or mobile application.

To move from theory to practice, discover the Certyneo electronic signature solution and its offer dedicated to your sector — eIDAS compliant, no installation required.

  • The electronic signature is equivalent to a handwritten signature (article 25 of the eIDAS regulation), regardless of the device.
  • Annotating a PDF with your finger in Apple apps is not an enforceable eIDAS signature.
  • By signing via a compliant platform, each signature is time-stamped and sealed from your mobile.
  • A complete proof file (identity, date, file fingerprint) is retained and enforceable in case of dispute.

Common use cases

Sign a contract received by email while traveling.
Validate a quote or purchase order directly in the field.
Sign a lease or mandate from home, without a printer.
Countersign a certificate or authorization urgently.
Have a client sign during an appointment, on your own iPad.
Approve an HR document (amendment, expense report) while mobile.

How to sign on iPhone in 4 steps

  1. 1

    Open the signature link

    Tap the link received by email or SMS. The document opens directly in Safari on your iPhone, with nothing to install.

  2. 2

    Review the document

    Scroll through the document on screen to read it in full before signing, with simple pinch-to-zoom.

  3. 3

    Add your signature

    Tap the signature area, then draw your signature with your finger or Apple Pencil, or choose from proposed signature styles.

  4. 4

    Confirm and receive proof

    Confirm your signature. You immediately receive the signed document and proof file by email.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to install an application?
No, signing is done directly in Safari from the received link. A mobile app exists for added convenience, but it is not required.
Is annotating a PDF in the Files app sufficient?
No. Drawing a signature with Apple's annotation tool produces only a simple image, with no legal binding value. Use a compliant platform for a true electronic signature.
Can I use the Apple Pencil?
Yes, on iPad the Apple Pencil works perfectly for drawing your signature, just like your finger on iPhone.
Is signing from an iPhone as valid as on a computer?
Yes, the legal value is identical. It is the compliant signing process that matters, not the device used.
Can I have another person sign on my iPad?
Yes, you can present the document during a meeting and have your contact sign directly on your screen.
→ Electronic signature guide · → How to sign a document · → Understanding the eIDAS regulation

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