How to sign a document online?

Sign a document online in 5 steps

Regardless of format (PDF, Word, Excel, image), the procedure is the same. No software to install, signature legally valid in France and across the European Union.

1. 1

   Import your document

   Drag and drop your file (PDF, Word, Excel, image — automatically converted to PDF). You can also retrieve it from Google Drive or Dropbox. No page limit.

2. 2

   Add the signers

   Enter each signer's email and choose the signing order (parallel or sequential). You can also add yourself if you need to countersign.

3. 3

   Place the fields and send

   Position signature zones, initials, dates and text fields by drag-and-drop on the document. Click Send: each signer receives a unique email link.

4. 4

   Signers sign in a few clicks

   The signer opens the link, draws their signature with mouse or finger on mobile, types their name, or uploads a scan. No Certyneo account is required on the signer's side.

5. 5

   Download and verify

   The signed PDF is immediately downloadable with its signature certificate and RFC 3161 audit trail integrated. The signature remains verifiable for life via any PDF reader (Adobe Reader, Foxit) or our online verifier.

Which device can you sign on?

No installation, no plug-in: signing works directly in the browser on every device.

Depending on what you sign

The principles are identical but each type of document has its own legal specifics. Consult the guide dedicated to your case.

Frequently asked questions

Does electronic signature have the same value as a handwritten signature?

Yes. The European regulation eIDAS (910/2014) and article 1367 of the French Civil Code recognize electronic signature as strictly equivalent to handwritten signature, provided it allows identification of the signer and guarantees the integrity of the document. The three levels (Simple, Advanced, Qualified) cover all common contractual uses.

How to sign a document online for free?

The free Certyneo plan allows you to sign up to 5 documents per month in simple electronic signature (SES) without credit card or time limit. It is sufficient for most freelancers and very small businesses. Beyond that, a paid plan unlocks Advanced (AES) and Qualified (QES) levels and advanced features (multi-signatories, reusable templates, API).

Do I need to install software to sign online?

No. Online signing works entirely in the browser, on computer (Windows, Mac, Linux) as well as on mobile (iOS, Android), without plug-in or application to install. The signer receives an email link and signs in a few clicks. No Certyneo account is required on the signer''s side — only the sender needs one.

How to verify that an online signed document is authentic?

Each signed PDF includes a signature certificate (X.509) and an RFC 3161 timestamp integrated into the file. You can verify the signature in any PDF reader (Adobe Reader displays a "Signed and validated" banner), in our online verifier, or via the audit trail attached to the submission (which details the date, IP, authentication method, and signer''s timestamp).

What is the difference between signing a PDF and signing a contract online?

Technically it''s the same operation: a contract is a PDF with a particular legal status. Practically, signing a contract often involves multiple signatories in a defined order, specific fields (initials per page, handwritten notes), and compliant archiving for 10 years. The guide "how to sign a contract online" details these points.

How do I sign a PDF electronically and for free?

Upload your PDF to Certyneo, add your signature (mouse, finger or scan), download the signed file. The free plan allows 5 signed PDFs per month with simple electronic signature (SES) — enough for most freelancers. No credit card required, no time limit. For Advanced (AES) or Qualified (QES) levels legally equivalent to a handwritten signature by default, a paid plan is required.

Can I sign a contract online from a smartphone or tablet?

Yes, and it's actually the mode preferred by most signers. The signing link received by email opens in the mobile browser (Safari, Chrome) without any app to install. The signer draws their signature with their fingertip on the touchscreen, or uses an Apple Pencil / S Pen stylus on tablet. Handwritten rendering is generally more natural on mobile than with a mouse.

How do I create a contract online and have it signed immediately?

Two steps: (1) generate the contract with our employment contract, NDA or sales mandate generator — or upload your own Word/PDF template; (2) add the signers and send it for online signing. The contract moves from drafting to signature in a few minutes, with no printing or postal mail. See our contract generator catalog and template library.

To go further

• Complete guide to electronic signature
• Electronic signature: product page
• Free electronic signature
• eIDAS glossary