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Qualified electronic signatures for foreigners

The e-signature, as a tool, significantly helps solve many official matters. How can a foreigner obtain  a qualified electronic signature? Check out which of the requirements must be met in order for a foreigner to use one.

Trust in digital solutions, as well as e-signatures, is steadily increasing. These tools are not only comfortable to use, but are also secure. Thanks to the e-signature and qualified signature, you can easily get many things done without even leaving your home. These include signing numerous contracts. However, how does a foreigner obtain a qualified electronic signature? Getting through this process is not as complex as it may seem. Can it be done via the Autenti platform? Check it out!

Electronic signatures for foreigners

People from countries other than Poland who do not have Polish citizenship can apply for a qualified electronic signature that is for foreigners. It is important to note that in order for a foreigner to be able to do this, they should be assigned a PESEL number. However, in practice, obtaining a Polish PESEL number is not complicated.

If you want to obtain a qualified electronic signature for foreigners and you need a PESEL number, then all you need to do is be registered in Poland. In this instance, an ID will automatically be issued to you. You can also apply for a PESEL number at the appropriate government office. Once you receive this, you can then proceed with the electronic signature procedure.

Autenti qualified electronic signatures for foreigners without a PESEL 

It is worth noting that the application process for a qualified electronic signature for foreigners is the same as for Polish citizens when it comes to the following stages of the procedure. It can be done via the Autenti platform.

  1. Firstly, you will need to purchase a qualified signature.
  2. Next you will need to submit an application for an e-signature.
  3. The next stage is for verifying your identity. 
  4. Finally, your signature will be issued and you can make use of this digital age.

 

The identity verification method is a bit different in terms of qualified electronic signatures for foreigners. This person can confirm his/her identity:

  • with the help of a passport;
  • or with an ID card.

The information on the identity card should also be in the Public Register of Authentic Identity and Travel Documents. This is a public register that is issued by the Council of the European Union.

Qualified signatures for foreigners - requirements

A qualified electronic signature for foreigners can be obtained thanks to the Autenti platform. We place emphasis on making the process for obtaining a signature as easy as possible so as not to cause any problems for the people who want to be issued one.  Qualified signatures in Autenti are issued in English and can be obtained by any foreigner. The procedure is conducted online from start to finish, which means that there is no need to complete any formalities in-person. You pass through all of the stages without needing to leave your home, which definitely adds to your comfort.

Which conditions have to be met?

In order to obtain a qualified electronic signature for foreigners through Autenti, you must meet certain criteria.

Infocert

For an InfoCert qualified certificate, you will need:

  • a valid passport;
  • an e-mail address;
  • an active phone number.

It does not matter which country code your number originates from.

SimpySign

For a SimplySign certificate, you will need:

  • a passport or an identity card;
  • an e-mail address;
  • a personal Polish bank account.

In this instance, a telephone number is also required, but the number of options are limited, as the available options are for Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Spanish, Dutch or French numbers.

The SimplySign certificate can be obtained in two ways. The first way is linked to the identity document’s number, and the second is with the PESEL number. You will let the consultant know which option you will choose during the identity verification process. If you want to connect the certificate to a PESEL number, you must have confirmation that grants this identifier. This can be, for example, a residence card or an appropriate official certificate. If the certificate is to be linked to an identity document, the validity of the latter cannot be shorter than the validity of the certificate.

mSzafir

If you decide on the mSzafir certificate, you should have:

  • an electronic banking account in PKO BP, Inteligo mBank, Pekao S.A. (opened during an in-person visit to a bank branch with the PESEL number provided),
  • or a KIR qualified certificate saved on a cryptographic card,
  • personal e-mail address,
  • Polish phone number.