Online signatures have actually been around for a long time, but their usage skyrocketed during the Covid-19 pandemic. With the rising need for efficiency and remote work, it’s no surprise that many people began searching for free online signature tools to sign documents digitally.
But here’s the big question: Are all free online signature services legally valid in Indonesia?
And can free online signatures fully replace traditional handwritten signatures?
What Is an Online Signature?
An online signature is a digital method of signing documents using an electronic device such as a laptop or smartphone. You simply upload the file, add your signature virtually, and the document is ready to be saved or sent.
This process helps individuals and businesses complete administrative tasks quickly, especially in a world where remote work and digital paperwork are the norm.
However, it’s important to understand that not all online signatures carry the same legal weight. Some are nothing more than images or typed names, while others include proper identity verification and digital certificates.
In Indonesia, online signatures that are legally valid, cannot be forged, and carry non-repudiation must be issued by a Penyelenggara Sertifikasi Elektronik (PSrE)—a digital certificate authority regulated by Komdigi. This means that not all free online signature websites are legally valid.
You must first understand what type of document you're signing to decide whether a free tool is appropriate.
Free Online Signature Websites
Here are seven commonly used platforms for free online signatures. Each has useful features, but it’s important to understand their legal limitations in Indonesia.
1. Smallpdf
A popular online tool where users can upload, sign, and download documents easily.
However, Smallpdf does not provide a digital certificate compliant with Indonesian regulations.
Its signature is only acceptable for internal or low-risk documents—not for legally binding agreements.
2. DocuSign
A global leader in electronic signatures, offering free trials with tracking and workflow features.
Although DocuSign is legally recognized internationally, it is not a PSrE in Indonesia.
However, DocuSign has partnered with VIDA, enabling the use of signatures that comply with Indonesian legal standards.
3. SignWell
SignWell offers up to three free documents per month, but it does not support certified digital signatures or Indonesian identity verification requirements.
4. HelloSign (Dropbox Sign)
A user-friendly signing tool integrated with Gmail, Google Drive, and Dropbox.
However, HelloSign is not listed as a PSrE in Indonesia. Good for personal use, but not recommended for legally binding documents.
5. Adobe Acrobat Sign
Part of the Adobe ecosystem and supports AATL (Adobe Approved Trust List).
However, it is not registered as a PSrE in Indonesia.
6. Signeasy
A mobile-friendly signing app offering quick, free signatures.
But its signatures are not compliant with Komdigi regulations.
7. PDFfiller
Primarily a PDF editing platform that also offers simple online signatures—usually image-based and not legally binding.
Legally Valid Online Signatures in Indonesia
The legality of digital signatures in Indonesia is governed by:
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ITE Law No. 11/2008
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Government Regulation (PP) No. 71/2019
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Kominfo Regulation No. 11/2022
According to these regulations, only signatures issued by PSrE-certified digital certificate authorities carry full legal force.
To be legally binding, a digital signature must:
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Include a valid digital certificate
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Be linked to a verified identity
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Be verifiable for authenticity and integrity
(e.g., through https://tte.komdigi.go.id/verifyPDF)
Only 10 institutions in Indonesia are legally authorized to issue certified digital signatures:
VIDA, PERURI, DigiSign, Xignature, TekenAja!, Vinotek, idtrust.id, Privy, and EzSign.
VIDA: A Legal Provider of Free Online Signatures
PT VIDA Digital Identity is officially licensed by Komdigi as a PSrE, offering free, legal, and secure digital signature solutions.
Why use the VIDA App for free online signatures?
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10 free signatures for new users
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Certified digital certificates recognized by Komdigi
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Identity verification through biometrics and KTP
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Suitable for legal contracts, financial transactions, and critical documents
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Available as a mobile app and enterprise API (VIDA Sign OpenAPI & DirectSign)
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Features like scanning, templates, and e-Meterai integration
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Document storage with a secure locked folder (DocsVault)
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Secure sharing via protected document links (SecureShare)
While many websites offer free online signatures, not all of them are legally valid in Indonesia. For personal or low-risk documents: tools like Smallpdf or SignWell may be enough. For business needs, legal contracts, or important transactions, only digital signatures issued by PSrE providers like VIDA are legally binding and fully compliant.
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