The signature authentication is the notarial act by which the notary certifies that the signature appearing on a document has been placed by a specific person, whose identity has been verified. With the notarial digitalization enabled by the Law 11/2023, this procedure can be carried out online before a notary in Spain.
What is signature authentication?
When the notary authenticates a signature, they certify two things:
- That the person who signed the document is who they claim to be (their identity has been verified)
- That the signature was placed in their presence or that the signature is recognized as their own
Important: signature authentication does not imply that the notary certifies the content of the document, only that the signature is authentic and belongs to the identified person.
When is signature authentication needed?
- Private documents requiring authentication: contracts, assignments of rights, acknowledgments of debt
- Procedures before registries or public administrations that require an authenticated signature
- Documents to be used abroad that require notarial authentication as a prior step to apostille
- Applications to organizations that request a notarily authenticated signature
Difference between signature authentication and public deed
In a public deed, the notary attests to the content of the document, the capacity of the grantors, and their statements of intent. In signature authentication, the notary only attests to the authenticity of the signature, without addressing the content.
The cost of signature authentication is lower than that of a public deed, and the procedure is faster.
How to process signature authentication online?
- Send us the document whose signature you wish to authenticate
- Video call appointment: The notary verifies your identity and presence online
- Signing the document: You can sign electronically or on paper and show the signature to the notary
- Notarial endorsement: The notary adds the endorsement of authentication to the document
- Sending: The document with the authentication is sent to your address
How much does it cost to authenticate a signature before a notary?
The fees for signature authentication are the lowest in the notarial tariff scale. For a signature on a simple document, the cost ranges between 20 and 50 euros. If the document has multiple pages or signers, the cost may be slightly higher. Contact our team for an exact quote.