Electronic documents and qualified electronic signatures have become an essential part of interactions between businesses, individuals, and administrative bodies in Georgia. When communicating with public institutions, such as participating in public procurement, entities are often required to submit documents electronically using a qualified electronic signature or a qualified electronic stamp.
A qualified electronic signature provides a high level of security and legal certainty. Its main advantages include:
- Unique identification of the signatory and a secure link between the signer and the signature.
- Sole control by the signatory over the cryptographic keys used to create the signature.
- Integrity protection, ensuring that any alteration of the signed data becomes immediately detectable.
- Automatic invalidation of the signature if the signed data is changed in any way.
The purpose of developing qualified electronic signatures and stamps is to ensure a high standard of document protection, enhance trust in digital exchanges, and streamline the execution of agreements and administrative processes. Users can sign documents remotely, save time, avoid unnecessary travel, and reduce reliance on paper documentation.
Electronic document circulation also leads to reduced administrative costs for both private users and governmental entities and has positive environmental impacts by decreasing paper consumption. Additionally, electronic documents are resistant to forgery and manipulation, offering a higher level of protection compared to traditional paper documents.
Procedure
Issuing Electronic Stamps
Electronic stamps issued by organisations are issued by the structural units of the LEPL Public Service Development Agency (SDA) and the Public Service Halls. These institutions provide the specialised cards required to generate electronic stamps.
Activating a Qualified Electronic Signature
A qualified electronic signature can be created using the Georgian ID card or Georgian residence card. Activation requires the user’s personal PIN code, which may be obtained or renewed at any Public Service Hall or SDA office.
Holders of residence cards may need to update their cards before using qualified electronic signature functions, depending on the card’s issuance and validity conditions.
The widespread use of electronic signatures supports Georgia’s ongoing efforts to improve digital governance and strengthen its reputation as a technology-friendly country with secure and efficient public services.
Qualified Trust Service Providers
Qualified trust service providers supply and maintain the digital tools needed to create and validate electronic signatures and stamps. They ensure the integrity, authenticity, and security of electronic identification systems by implementing strong authentication and protection mechanisms.
In many jurisdictions, these providers operate as private commercial entities that offer the software and services required for organisations seeking to use qualified electronic signatures in their operations.
In Georgia, entities or individuals that wish to become qualified trust service providers must undergo an authorisation process conducted by the LEPL Data Exchange Agency of the Ministry of Justice. Applicants must satisfy strict technical, technological, and financial criteria, including possessing adequate civil liability insurance. Authorisation is granted for a defined term and must be renewed in accordance with regulatory requirements.
If your organisation is planning to adopt qualified electronic signatures or become a trust service provider, professional guidance can help ensure full compliance with Georgian digital documentation standards.