Is an electronic signature legal in Lebanon?
The Law gives electronic signatures the same legal effect as handwritten signatures in principle and addresses electronic transactions and data protection together. It contemplates ordinary electronic signatures and qualified signatures issued by accredited authentication service providers. In practice, the statutory presumption of reliability depends on the accreditation regime being operational, so until then a court may weigh an electronic signature’s reliability on the facts.
What types of electronic signature are recognized in Lebanon?
The Law recognizes electronic signatures generally (data used to sign that can identify the signatory and is securely associated with the document) and qualified electronic signatures issued by accredited providers, which are intended to carry a presumption of reliability once the accreditation framework is in force.
What documents can be signed electronically in Lebanon?
Commonly suited to e-commerce contracts, commercial agreements, NDAs, and electronic communications where no special statutory form is required.
What documents cannot be signed electronically in Lebanon?
Official electronic documents take effect only within the framework set by implementing decrees, and the accreditation regime for qualified providers is still maturing — so use a higher-assurance method and a strong audit trail for important matters, and confirm the current rules for documents requiring a specific form.
What court cases have addressed eSignatures in Lebanon?
None reported.
