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AES (Advanced Electronic Signature)
AES (Advanced Electronic Signature) is a signature level defined in the EU eIDAS Regulation. An AES is uniquely linked to the signer, can identify the signer, is created with signature creation data that the signer can, with a high level of confidence, use under their sole control, and is linked to the document so that any later change can be detected. It is stronger than a Simple Electronic Signature (SES).
What is AES?
eIDAS defines three types of electronic signature (Article 3(10) to (12)): the basic electronic signature, often called a Simple Electronic Signature (SES), AES and Qualified Electronic Signature (QES). An AES must meet four requirements (Article 26(1) of eIDAS):
- It is uniquely linked to the signer.
- It can identify the signer.
- It is created with signature creation data that the signer can, with a high level of confidence, use under their sole control.
- It is linked to the signed data so that any later change can be detected.
How it works in Formify
Formify offers SES and AES. In Formify, a signature with identity verification (Live ID) is an AES. The signer verifies with Live ID, a passport scan and a video selfie, on Formify's signing page and then signs. Every signed PDF is sealed with a qualified certificate from a provider on the EU Trusted List, and the sealed PDF can be verified independently.
If you send from ChatGPT, Claude or Manus through Formify's e-signature MCP server, you ask for Live ID in the prompt, for example "Send the NDA template to anna@example.com for signing with Live ID."
Why AES matters
AES gives stronger evidence of who signed than SES. Businesses often use it for agreements where the signer's identity matters, such as NDAs, employment contracts and rental agreements. Some agreements need QES under national law, so check the rules for yours.
FAQ
How does Formify verify the signer for AES?
With Live ID. The signer scans their passport and records a video selfie on the signing page before signing.
Can clients in other countries sign with AES?
Yes. Live ID works with the signer's passport and a video selfie on Formify's signing page.
What is the difference between AES and QES?
QES is an AES created with a qualified signature creation device and based on a qualified certificate. Formify offers SES and AES.
Related terms
Related pages
- Electronic signature levels in Formify
- Formify pricing for SES and AES signatures
- eIDAS explained on the Formify blog
Last reviewed: 22 October 2026
