The Basics of Digital Signatures in Italy

Today, digital signatures have become one of the critical tools to sign documents online safely. This short guide gives insight into how they work, their costs and how to obtain one in Italy.

Which is the cheapest digital signature?

The most affordable choice in Italy is a Qualified Electronic Signature (Firma Elettronica Qualificata, FEQ) which may be activated free of charge using a Pay per Sign model. Therefore, you do not need to sign up for any long-term agreement but instead pay only €6.99 whenever you use it to digitally sign a document. This approach is particularly good if you are an individual or company that does not regularly sign documents.

How much does a digital signature cost?

The kind of device determines the acquisition price for a digital signature:

Smart-Card: The total fee amounts to €40.10 which comprises €15.10 (€12.38 + VAT) for the digital subscription certificate and administrative charges @ 25.00.

Digital DNA Key: It goes at €85.10 which includes €15.10 (€12.38 + VAT) for the digital subscription certificate and administrative fees @70.

These funds cover initial setup and issuance of those digital certificates required to generate lawful binding electronic signatures.

How long does it take Buffetti digital signature activation?

With Buffetti, obtaining your own digital signature is both simple and efficient at the same time. FirmaFacile service offers its clients with smart cards; USB pendrives; smartphones and tablets as mobile devices through which users can make use of their e-signatures here.The actual process does not take much time as it usually lasts between 24-48 hours after purchase has been effected.This feature makes Buffetti suitable where there is an urgent need by someone who wants their documents signed digitally very quickly.

What do I need for creating my own Buffetti’s e-signature?

To create a digital signature with Buffetti, the following is required:

A valid identity document in original form such as a card of identification, driver’s license or passport.

A valid health card (tessera sanitaria in Italian), otherwise an Electronic Identity Card (CIE).

With these documents your identity will be verified allowing you to securely digitally sign documents with assurance.

To sum it up, digital signatures in Italy are easy to find, moderately priced and quick to activate. These characteristics make them ideal for efficiency and security conscious individuals and businesses working with digital files.

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