Electronic signatures in Japan
Ordinary electronic signatures are valid, but a defined higher tier carries stronger legal presumptions and is required for some uses.
Are electronic signatures legal in Japan?
Yes. Electronic signatures are valid, and a signature meeting the statutory criteria attracts a presumption of authenticity.
Recognised signature types
| Type | Standing and typical use |
|---|---|
| Electronic signature | Valid where the parties accept it |
| Certified electronic signature | Meets statutory criteria and attracts a presumption |
| Electronic seal | Corporate equivalent of the traditional company seal |
Commonly signed electronically
- Employment agreements
- Commercial and supplier contracts
- Service agreements
- Corporate approvals
Generally excluded
- Wills and testamentary instruments
- Certain real property and registration documents
- Documents requiring notarisation
- Some fixed-term lease categories
Exclusions differ in detail. Docsliy blocks these at the drafting step rather than producing a document that fails later.
Local formalities
Stamp tax applies to specified categories of paper document. Electronic execution has historically been treated differently, which is a factor worth confirming per instrument type.
Identity verification
My Number based verification is available; certification businesses accredited under the Act issue certificates.
What Docsliy supports in Japan
- Certified tier through partner certification businesses
- Japanese clause libraries
- Electronic seal support for corporate execution
This is general information, not legal advice.
It describes how electronic signature law generally operates in Japan and is not advice on any specific agreement. Agreements carrying significant risk should be reviewed by qualified local counsel.