Is an electronic signature legal in Iraq?
The Law gives electronic records and signatures legal effect across civil, commercial, and administrative transactions, and a transaction is not denied validity merely because it is electronic. It distinguishes an ordinary electronic signature from a certified (authenticated) signature approved by a certification authority; a certified signature meeting the statutory conditions has the same effect as a handwritten signature, while an ordinary signature may need to be proven if challenged.
What types of electronic signature are recognized in Iraq?
A certified electronic signature must be uniquely linked to and under the sole control of the signatory, created using means under their control, tamper-evident, and created within the validity period of a certification authority’s certificate — carrying the strongest evidentiary weight.
What documents can be signed electronically in Iraq?
Commonly signed electronically: commercial and civil agreements, administrative transactions, and (with the 2025 rollout) a growing range of government transactions; lease agreements fall outside the immovable-property exclusion.
What documents cannot be signed electronically in Iraq?
Use a certified signature from a licensed authority for high-value matters. Where a law requires witnesses, an official deed, notarization, or a particular form, follow that method.
- Personal-status and family-law matters (marriage, divorce)
- Wills and endowments (Waqf)
- Transactions involving immovable property (sale, gift, related powers of attorney) — except lease agreements
- Documents that law requires to follow a specific form (for example witnesses or an official deed)
- Court procedures and judicial notifications, and documents requiring notarization by a public notary
What court cases have addressed eSignatures in Iraq?
None reported.
What laws govern electronic signatures in Iraq?
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