Is electronic signature legal in Colombia?
Yes. Colombia's Law 527 of 1999 recognizes data messages and electronic signatures, and a digital signature backed by a certificate from an accredited certification entity has the same value as a handwritten one. Documents that must be granted by public deed before a notary follow notarial rules.
Last reviewed October 2026. General information, not legal advice.
E-signature law in Colombia at a glance
- Status
- Legal
- Main laws
Ley 527 de 1999 (data messages, electronic commerce and digital signatures)
Decreto 2364 de 2012 (electronic signature), compiled in Decreto 1074 de 2015
- Approach
- Two-tier: basic and secure (often certificate-based) signatures
Types of electronic signature in Colombia
Electronic signature (firma electrónica)
Codes, passwords, biometric data or other methods that identify a person in relation to a data message, if reliable and appropriate. It has the same validity as a handwritten signature if it meets those requirements.
Digital signature (firma digital)
A cryptographic signature backed by a certificate from a certification entity accredited by ONAC. It is presumed to meet signature requirements and to show the signer's intent.
What you can sign electronically in Colombia
- Commercial and service contracts
- Employment contracts
- Lease agreements
- Electronic invoices and tax documents (with DIAN rules)
- Corporate documents
Documents that need a handwritten signature or extra formalities
- Acts that the law requires to be granted by public deed before a notary, such as the sale of real estate
Contracts that must be “in writing”
Law 527 provides that where a law requires information to be in writing, a data message meets that requirement if it is accessible for later consultation, and where a signature is required, an appropriate and reliable electronic method meets it.
E-signatures in Colombia: frequently asked questions
Are e-signed contracts enforceable in Colombia?
Yes. Law 527 of 1999 and Decree 2364 of 2012 give electronic signatures legal effect if the method is reliable and appropriate.
What is the difference between an electronic and a digital signature in Colombia?
A digital signature uses a certificate from an ONAC-accredited certification entity and is presumed valid. An electronic signature is valid if shown to be reliable and appropriate.
Can I sign a real estate sale electronically in Colombia?
The sale of real estate requires a public deed granted before a notary. The private promise contract can be signed electronically, but the deed follows notarial rules.
Sources
This page is general information about e-signature law in Colombia, not legal advice. It was last reviewed in October 2026, and laws change. Check the official sources above or ask a lawyer in Colombia before you rely on an electronic signature for an important document. See also whether electronic signatures are legal.
Send documents for eSignature in Colombia
BunnyDoc records every step in an audit trail that can be used as evidence. 5 free signature requests every month, no credit card needed.