Legal framework in Singapore
The Electronic Transactions Act, introduced in 1998 and revised in 2010, gives electronic signatures the same value as handwritten ones, following the UNCITRAL Model Law. It distinguishes electronic signatures from secure electronic signatures, with additional presumptions.
Legal framework
Electronic Transactions Act 2010
How the legal framework evolved in Singapore
1998
First Electronic Transactions Act: Singapore pioneers in Asia.
2010
New ETA aligned with UNCITRAL standards.
2021
ETA amendment: adopts the MLETR model law, enabling fully electronic negotiable trade documents.
Types of electronic signature in Singapore
Electronic signature
The Electronic Transactions Act 2010 recognizes it broadly: any method that identifies the signer and shows intent. Firmiu's audit trail provides exactly that evidence.
Secure / digital electronic signature
Certificate-based, with reinforced legal presumptions of authenticity and integrity.
Sign with Singpass
The national scheme for signing with the Singpass digital identity, integrated with state infrastructure.
What makes a signature valid in Singapore?
The signature must identify the person and indicate their intent, with a reliable method. Firmiu documents every signature with IP, device, location and verification.
Which documents can you sign in Singapore?
Can be signed electronically
- Commercial and service contracts
- Lease agreements
- Offer letters and employment contracts
- Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs)
- Quotes and purchase orders
- Electronic negotiable trade documents (since the 2021 amendment)
Usually require a notary or handwritten signature
- Wills
- Lasting powers of attorney
- Certain dispositions of immovable property
- Documents requiring special formalities
These lists are indicative: the document type and applicable law determine each case.
How to sign documents in Singapore
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 Singapore?
- Yes. The Electronic Transactions Act has recognized them since 1998.
- What is a secure electronic signature?
- A signature with additional legal presumptions of authorship and integrity.
- Are there exceptions?
- Yes: wills, trusts, powers of attorney and sale of immovable property, among others.
- What changed with the 2021 amendment?
- Singapore adopted the MLETR model law: bills of lading and other negotiable trade documents can be fully electronic — a milestone for international trade.
- Can I sign a lease electronically?
- Yes. Leases are routinely signed electronically; the exceptions are acts with special formalities.
- Do I need Singpass to sign private contracts?
- No. Sign with Singpass is an option for integrated services; private contracts are formed with any reliable electronic signature backed by audit evidence.
- Is an online-signed contract valid before Singapore courts?
- Yes. The ETA guarantees admissibility and courts weigh the reliability of the signing process.
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 Singapore.
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
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What documents can you sign electronically
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Electronic signature in other countries
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