Is an electronic signature legal in Cameroon?
A written signature is not required for a valid contract (Civil Code; OHADA Uniform Act). The electronic-commerce and cyber-security laws confirm a contract is not unenforceable merely for being electronic, and electronic records are admissible under s. 17 of the Cyber Security and Cyber Criminality Law.
What types of electronic signature are recognized in Cameroon?
A standard electronic signature suits ordinary use; higher-assurance signatures (AES/QES) are required for certain matters — for example, documents exchanged within the company-registry system must bear the issuing authority’s QES.
What documents can be signed electronically in Cameroon?
Suitable for HR documents, commercial agreements (NDAs, procurement, sales), certain consumer agreements, and certain real-estate documents such as leases.
What documents cannot be signed electronically in Cameroon?
Company-registry filings and exchanges require higher-assurance/QES signatures; real-property transfers and matters needing court or public-authority intervention need the prescribed form.
- Contracts creating or transferring real-property rights (excluding leases)
- Contracts requiring the intervention of courts, public authorities, or public-authority professions
- Family-law and succession deeds
- Private deeds relating to securities (personal or real)
What court cases have addressed eSignatures in Cameroon?
None reported.
What laws govern electronic signatures in Cameroon?
Disclaimer: This guide is general information, not legal advice, and is not a guarantee that any signature will be enforceable for a particular document, transaction, or jurisdiction. E-signature and data-protection laws change frequently. Confirm the requirements for your specific document and parties, and consult a licensed lawyer in the relevant country before relying on electronic signing.
Last reviewed: June 15, 2026