eSignature Legality Guide
eSignature Legality in Macau
Electronic signatures have been legally recognized in Macau since 2005, following the enactment of the Macau Law of Electronic Documents and Signatures.
E-Signature Legality Summary
According to Macau law, a handwritten signature is not always required for a contract to be valid. Contracts are generally enforceable if the parties are legally capable and reach an agreement, whether that agreement is made verbally, electronically (provided it can be reproduced in physical form and its integrity is maintained), or in writing (see Articles 211 ff. and 362 of the Macau Civil Code). To establish the validity of a contract, parties may need to present evidence in court. Leading digital transaction management platforms can generate electronic records that are admissible as evidence under Articles 355 and 362 of the Macau Civil Code and Article 450 ff. of the Macau Civil Procedure Code, supporting the existence, authenticity, and acceptance of a contract.
Notable Changes in E-Signature Law Since 2020
None.
Documents That May be Signed Electronically
Examples of documents where a Standard Electronic Signature is generally suitable include:
- HR-related documents, such as standard employment contracts, non-disclosure agreements, employee invention agreements, privacy notices, benefits forms, and other onboarding paperwork
- Commercial contracts between companies, including NDAs, purchase orders, order confirmations, invoices, procurement documents, sales contracts, distribution agreements, and service contracts
- Consumer contracts such as documents for opening new retail accounts, sales and service terms, software licenses, purchase orders, order confirmations, invoices, user manuals, and policies (excluding consumer loan agreements)
- Software license contracts
DISCLAIMER: The content provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations may change rapidly, and DocuSign cannot ensure that all information presented here is up to date or accurate. If you have specific legal questions regarding any information on this site, please consult a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction.
Last updated: August 30, 2021