Quick answer
Electronic signatures are recognised in India under the Information Technology Act, 2000. A typed or drawn signature on a PDF is widely used for offer letters, NDAs and everyday consent, but some filings need Aadhaar eSign or a Digital Signature Certificate, and documents like wills and property sale deeds are excluded.
What does Indian law say about e-signatures?
The Information Technology Act, 2000 gives legal recognition to electronic records and electronic signatures. In practice, there are three common kinds:
| Type | What it is | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Simple e-signature | Typed or drawn signature placed on a PDF | Offer letters, NDAs, internal approvals, consent forms |
| Aadhaar eSign | OTP-based signature through a licensed eSign provider | Agreements and forms needing stronger proof of identity |
| Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) | Certificate-based signature on a USB token | MCA, GST and income-tax filings, tenders |
This is general information, not legal advice. For important contracts, check with a lawyer.
When is a typed or drawn signature enough?
For most day-to-day documents — accepting a job offer, signing an NDA, a school consent form or an internal approval — a simple e-signature is widely accepted, especially when both sides agree to sign electronically and keep the emails or messages as a record.
When do I need Aadhaar eSign or a DSC?
- Government and statutory filings that specifically ask for one.
- Contracts where the other party requires stronger identity proof.
- Company and tax filings that only accept a DSC.
Which documents can't be signed electronically?
The IT Act excludes some documents, including wills, powers of attorney, trusts, contracts for sale or conveyance of immovable property, and negotiable instruments other than cheques. These still need traditional signatures and, often, stamp paper and registration.
How do I sign a PDF for free?
- Open Sign PDF and add your document.
- Choose Signature, then type your name or Draw it with your finger or mouse.
- Click where you want to sign. Drag to move it, drag the corner to resize.
- Add a date with Text if needed, then click Apply signature.
How do I prove the PDF wasn't changed later?
Create a fingerprint with File fingerprint right after signing and share it with the other party. If even one character changes, the fingerprint changes. You can also protect the file with Protect PDF.
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