A digital signature in Costa Rica is a technological tool that allows the legal identification of the author with the electronic document. Law 8454 provides the legal basis for the issuance and use of Digital Signature Certificates in the country, granting them the same validity as handwritten signatures and physical documents.
From a legal standpoint in Costa Rican regulations, the only signature that holds validity for legal processes, real estate, financial matters, public institutions, and more is the digital signature. This certificate must be requested from the bank of your choice but is registered with the Central Bank of Costa Rica.
Can other digital tools like ‘DocuSign’ or ‘Hello Sign’ be used in the same way as the digital signature?
Other electronic signature tools like ‘DocuSign’ or ‘Hello Sign’ can be used but do not have the same legal validity as the digital signature issued by the Central Bank of Costa Rica.
These tools can be used as electronic signatures for internal processes that require the transmission of good faith intentions. However, they cannot be used for specific legal processes such as property transfers.
It is important to consult with your trusted real estate advisor about when these types of tools can or cannot be used throughout the different stages of the buying and selling process.
At Nativu, we strive daily to stay at the forefront with the tools available in the market and keep our clients updated.
Vera Sanchez, Nativu Advisor
