How to Obtain and Use an e-Government Electronic Signature (e-Signature)? An electronic signature (e-signature) enables citizens and businesses to complete many official transactions electronically with the same legal validity as a handwritten signature. It plays an important role in simplifying and speeding up processes. Electronic signatures are provided by Electronic Certificate Service Providers approved by the Information and Communication Technologies Authority.
What Is an Electronic Signature?
What Is an Electronic Signature? In the simplest legal sense, an electronic signature is data attached to or logically associated with an electronic document that is used to verify identity. Having the same legal effect as a handwritten signature, an electronic signature guarantees that the information sent in electronic transactions has not been altered in transit, belongs to the sender, and cannot be repudiated. In other words, it confirms the identity of individuals in electronic transactions.
How to Obtain an e-Signature?
How to Obtain an e-Signature? To obtain an e-signature, you must apply to authorized Electronic Certificate Service Providers. These providers must be registered with the Information and Communication Technologies Authority in accordance with Law No. 5070 on Electronic Signatures. You can find the list of authorized providers on the official TK website.
Identity verification is mandatory when issuing an e-signature. Identity checks can be completed together with on-site installation services or via a notary. For corporate applications, verification can be done through the application contract. Alternatively, identity checks can also be performed at the provider’s office. For individual applications, a photocopy of the national ID card showing the Turkish ID number and the NES User Undertaking signed before a notary must be submitted to the service provider. Qualified electronic certificates are valid for up to three years from the date of issuance.
To use your electronic signature, first install the smart card driver or token software. This software is often included among the tools shipped with the e-signature or can be downloaded from the provider’s website. Once the required program is installed on your computer and your certificate is accessible through it, your e-signature will be ready for use.
Where Is an e-Signature Used?
Where Is an e-Signature Used? The e-signature you create can be used in many areas, including the following:
- Registered Electronic Mail (KEP) systems,
- e-Government (e-Devlet) applications,
- Electronic archive signing,
- Public projects where e-signature is mandatory,
- Commercial registry transactions within the MERSIS system,
- Customs and foreign trade procedures,
- Employment contracts and other contractual agreements,
- Submission of bank instructions,
- Signing general assembly, shareholders’ and board of directors’ resolutions,
- Approval forms for performance, leave, overtime and expense claims,
- Order processes and communication across dealer networks,
- Any other applications that would otherwise require a handwritten signature.
What Are the Features of an e-Signature?
What Are the Features of an e-Signature? Key features of an e-signature include:
- It produces the same legal effect as a handwritten signature.
- It has the same evidentiary value as a handwritten signature.
- When created according to the required procedures, electronic data signed with an e-signature has the status of a negotiable instrument.
- These signed electronic records are considered conclusive evidence unless proven otherwise.