Legal framework in El Salvador
The Electronic Signature Law (Decree 133 of 2015) distinguishes a simple electronic signature from a certified one. The certified signature has the same validity and evidentiary effects as a handwritten one; the simple one is valid and may serve as supporting evidence.
Legal framework
Electronic Signature Law (Decree 133, 2015)
How the legal framework evolved in El Salvador
2015
Decree 133, Electronic Signature Law: El Salvador recognizes simple and certified electronic signatures.
2010s
The regulation is issued and provider accreditation is organized under the Ministry of Economy.
2020s
El Salvador's digital agenda accelerates procedures and e-commerce.
Types of electronic signature in El Salvador
Simple electronic signature
Electronic data that identifies the signer and expresses intent (Decree 133 of 2015). Valid for private agreements; its reliability is evidenced by the audit trail.
Certified electronic signature
With a certificate from a provider accredited before the competent authority under the Ministry of Economy. It equals a handwritten signature and enjoys presumptions of authorship and integrity.
What makes a signature valid in El Salvador?
For private agreements, a simple electronic signature is valid. Firmiu accompanies every signature with an audit trail that backs its authorship.
Which documents can you sign in El Salvador?
Can be signed electronically
- Service agreements
- Lease agreements
- Employment contracts
- Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs)
- Quotes and purchase orders
- Authorization letters
Usually require a notary or handwritten signature
- Real-estate sales (they require a public deed)
- Wills
- Acts before a notary
- Civil-status acts
These lists are indicative: the document type and applicable law determine each case.
How to sign documents in El Salvador
Upload your PDF
Upload the document and enter the name and email of the person who must sign.
The signer receives a link
They get an email with a unique link and a verification code.
Signed document
The PDF is signed with its audit trail, ready to download.
Frequently asked questions
- Are electronic signatures legal in El Salvador?
- Yes. The 2015 Electronic Signature Law recognizes them.
- Difference between simple and certified?
- The certified one equals a handwritten signature for evidentiary effects; the simple one is valid and works as supporting evidence.
- Do they work for contracts?
- Yes, for most agreements between private parties.
- Is a simple electronic signature valid in El Salvador?
- Yes. The Electronic Signature Law recognizes its validity for private acts; the certified one adds automatic equivalence with a handwritten signature.
- Can I sign a lease electronically?
- Yes. Ordinary leases can be executed electronically with full validity.
- Does the Ministry of Finance intervene in my contracts?
- No. Electronic invoicing (DTE) uses the Ministry's own systems; private contracts don't require its involvement.
- Is it valid judicial evidence?
- Yes. The law recognizes the evidentiary value of electronically signed documents; the audit trail proves authorship and integrity.
Official sources
The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. The validity of an electronic signature depends on the applicable legislation and the document type; for specific cases, consult a legal professional.
Guide reviewed and updated: July 2026.
Electronic signatures by profession
Guides for the industries that sign the most documents in El Salvador.
Related guides
Are electronic signatures legal? What you need to know
Electronic signatures are legal across Latin America, Spain and the United States. Here's what makes them valid and where they're recognized.
Types of electronic signature: simple, advanced and qualified
Not all electronic signatures are the same. Here are the three levels and which one you need for each document.
What documents can you sign electronically
Electronic signatures work for far more documents than you'd think. Here are the most common ones and the exceptions.
Electronic signature in other countries
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