Advanced Electronic Signature
An Advanced Electronic Signature (AES) is a type of digital signature that meets specific legal and technical requirements defined by EU eIDAS regulations and UK law. AES signatures are uniquely linked to the signer, capable of identifying them, created using data that the signer can maintain under their sole control, and linked to the signed data in a way that any subsequent change is detectable. These characteristics make AES suitable for legal documents requiring strong authentication.
The FCDO accepts Advanced Electronic Signatures from registered UK solicitors for electronic certification of documents for the purpose of issuing an e-Apostille. AES provides cryptographic security that binds the signature to both the signer’s identity and the specific document content, making tampering immediately detectable. Solicitors must register their AES signatures with the FCDO before they can be used for e-Apostille certification, as the FCDO maintains a private database of approved signatures.
AES is not the same as simple electronic signatures like scanned handwritten signatures or typed names. Simple electronic signatures do not meet FCDO requirements because they lack the cryptographic security and unique linkage to the signer that AES provides. Documents with only simple electronic signatures require electronic solicitor certification with an AES or QES before the e-Apostille can be issued.
Technical Requirements
AES signatures use cryptographic algorithms to create unique digital fingerprints that prove the signer’s identity and detect any document modifications after signing.
FCDO Acceptance
The FCDO accepts both Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES) and Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) for solicitor certification, treating them as equally valid for e-Apostille purposes.
Common Misunderstanding
A scanned image of a handwritten signature or a typed name is not an Advanced Electronic Signature. True AES requires cryptographic technology that creates tamper-evident digital signatures.