Electronic Signatures:
In light of the significant digital transformation Egypt is witnessing in its journey to eliminate paper transactions, obtaining an electronic signature has become essential for completing transactions electronically. The Cabinet has directed all Egyptian government agencies to use the electronic signature system and adopt electronic documents and electronic signatures in their transactions. This allows individuals and legal entities to use and benefit from its services, simplifying procedures, eliminating red tape, and separating the service from its provider.
The law regulating electronic signatures is Law No. 15 of 2004, issued on April 21, 2004, and the amendments to its executive regulations.
What is an electronic signature?
The Egyptian legislator defined an electronic signature in Law No. 15 of 2004, in Article 1, which covers definitions, as “what is placed on an electronic document and takes the form of letters, numbers, symbols, signs, or other elements, and has a unique character that allows the signatory to be identified and distinguishes him from others.”
Therefore, an electronic signature is an official signature used to prove identity in transactions that require confirmation of the user’s identity in various government services. In addition to the legal validity of an electronic signature, which can be used with all types of electronic documents, it facilitates and secures all daily electronic transactions and makes them easy to verify.
How is an electronic signature performed?
The electronic signature tool (Smart Token) is a smart chip with a digital certificate bearing the digital identity of its holder (national ID number, job title, authorizations, official email address). The chip is placed inside a USB reader and connected to your computer, where the electronic signature is performed after entering the PIN.
As part of implementing the Cabinet’s directives, the Maritime Transport & Logistics Sector has activated electronic signatures on the Maritime Single Window system and has contracted with Egypt Trust to provide electronic solutions for the system’s implementation..
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can the e-signature module used in the Customs Window platform be used?
- Yes, users of the Single Maritime Window can use the Customs Window module issued by any of the companies that issue e-signature modules.
Can each company have more than one e-signature module?
- Yes, each shipping agency can have more than one e-signature module, as the system links them to their respective shipping agency.
Where can I obtain an e-signature module?
- Through one of the companies authorized to provide e-signature services.
What documents are required to issue an e-signature from Egypt Trust?
Egypt Trust branches and partners in all governorates?