Republic of North Macedonia Electronic Signature Compliance Explanation

Are electronic signatures legal in North Macedonia? What laws primarily regulate electronic signatures?

Electronic signatures are legal in North Macedonia, and they are primarily regulated by the “Law on Electronic Documents, Electronic Identification, and Confidential Services” enacted in 2019.

What types of electronic signatures are recognized in North Macedonia? What are the requirements for each?

North Macedonia recognizes three types of electronic signatures: electronic signatures, advanced electronic signatures, and qualified electronic signatures.

1. Electronic Signature

An electronic signature refers to a set of data in electronic form that is attached to or logically associated with other electronic data and is used by the signatory for signing purposes.

2. Advanced Electronic Signature

An advanced electronic signature represents an electronic signature that meets the following requirements:

• It has a unique link to the signatory;
• It can identify the signatory;
• It is created using a method that the signatory can control exclusively; and
• It is associated with the data to which it relates so that any subsequent changes to the data can be detected.

3. Qualified Electronic Signature

A qualified electronic signature refers to an advanced electronic signature generated by a qualified electronic signature creation device and based on a qualified electronic signature certificate.

In which scenarios can electronic signatures be used in North Macedonia?

• Construction agreements
• License agreements
• Consumer agreements
• Business agreements
• Confidentiality agreements
• Distribution agreements
• Service agreements
• Loan agreements, etc.

In which scenarios are traditional signatures required in North Macedonia?

• Documents requiring notarization/solemn ceremonies:

  • Real estate purchase and sale agreements
  • Real estate donation agreements
  • Agreements for the transfer of real estate during a person’s lifetime
  • Lifelong maintenance agreements
  • Industrial property transfer agreements
  • Share purchase agreements
  • Share pledge agreements, mortgage agreements, and other registered pledge agreements

• Documents requiring handwritten signatures in the competent court (e.g., court wills, meeting minutes, etc.)