2026 e-Signature Guide: What is it, How to Obtain it, and What are the Prices?

In the digitized world, official transactions have almost entirely moved to online platforms. During this process, the most important tool providing legal validity and top-level security is the electronic signature (e-signature). So, what is an e-signature, how is it obtained with new generation methods in 2026, where is it used, and how long do the delivery processes take? Here are all the up-to-date details you need to know about e-signature application, biometric verification, and usage.

📌  Quick Overview: Things You Need to Know About e-Signature

• Legal Strength: Under the law numbered 5070, e-signature has 100% the same legal validity as a wet signature.

• Fastest Method: In 2026, instead of waiting for a physical courier, you can activate your e-signature in minutes with NFC and Biometric Verification.

• Sole Proprietorship Advantage: If you have a sole proprietorship, you don't need to get a Financial Seal separately; you can manage e-invoice processes with your e-signature.

• Cost Tip: 3-year packages offer up to a 40% cost advantage compared to 1-year packages.

• Where is it Needed?: For e-Government, UYAP, MERSİS, EKAP, and banking transactions, e-signature is now a "golden key".

• Renewal Ease: If you apply before your certificate expires, you can renew online without the hassle of collecting documents.

What is an e-Signature?

Electronic signature (e-signature) is your identity card in the digital world. This system, which definitively proves who approved a document or transaction, also guarantees that the data is not altered during transmission.

In Turkey, the use of e-signature is legally grounded by the Electronic Signature Law No. 5070. Under this regulation, e-signature has the same legal validity as a wet signature.

Traditionally, e-signature is used via smart card readers (tokens), which are plugged into a computer and resemble USB drives. However, thanks to cloud-based systems and mobile applications, it is now possible to transact without needing a physical device.

What is the Purpose of an Electronic Signature?

Electronic signature (e-signature); has become a mandatory tool for many digital transactions, especially for business owners, financial advisors, and e-commerce enterprises.

Here are the basic areas of use that facilitate your life and the advantages they provide:

• Official Institution Transactions: It allows you to complete address changes, vehicle registrations, and SGK transactions on the e-Government gateway without waiting in line.

• Legal Processes (UYAP): You can file a case, sign documents, and carry out attorney transactions digitally without needing to go to the courthouse.

• Commercial and Company Transactions: Mandatory for company establishment, board decisions, and trade register gazette transactions through MERSİS.

• Tender Participations (EKAP): E-signature is an indispensable security requirement for submitting bids for public tenders.

• Banking and Finance: Credit contracts and instructions are approved in seconds without the hassle of a wet signature.

• Paperless Office (Green Transformation): Enables the digitalization of corporate correspondences (EBYS), saving both time and paper.

Where Can You Get an e-Signature?

In Turkey, an electronic signature can be obtained through Electronic Certificate Service Providers (ESHS) authorized by the Information Technologies and Communication Authority (BTK). The application processes generally consist of online application + identity verification steps.

The most well-known e-signature providers in Turkey are:

• TÜBİTAK KamuSM

• e-Güven

• Türktrust

• e-Tuğra

How to Get an e-Signature? 

Thanks to new generation identity verification systems, obtaining an e-signature can be completed in just a few minutes. Here is the step-by-step application process:

1. Choose an Authorized e-Signature Provider

First, you should choose an Electronic Certificate Service Provider (ESHS) authorized by BTK (Information Technologies and Communication Authority). You can start your application via the websites of PTT or private companies.

2. Digital Identity Verification (NFC and Biometrics)

The biggest convenience provided in 2026 is that you can verify your identity without leaving your place.

• Verification with NFC: You can instantly transfer your information to the system by scanning your new T.C. Identity Card on the back of your phone.

• Video Call: You can complete the "liveness test" and biometric verification steps by making a short video call with the service provider's customer representative.

3. Package Selection

Choose the usage period according to your needs. Typically, 3-year packages are much more advantageous in terms of cost.

4. Activation and Setup

Once your application is approved, your activation code will be sent via SMS or email. If you have ordered a physical USB (Token), it will be delivered by courier; however, if you chose Cloud e-Signature, you can start signing immediately via the mobile application without needing any hardware.

What Documents Are Required for e-Signature Application?

To successfully complete the identity verification process when obtaining your e-signature certificate, you need to prepare the following documents. Remember that thanks to new generation chip identity cards, applications can now be made without needing many documents.

1. Required Documents for Personal Applications

Those who will obtain an e-signature for personal use should have the following documents:

• T.C. Identity Card: A current identity card, passport, or driver's license with a T.C. identity number and photo. (In 2026, NFC-enabled new identity cards significantly speed up the process.)

• e-Signature Commitment: The form filled out at the application center or digitally approved during the online application.

2. Required Documents for Corporate Applications

If you are obtaining an e-signature for corporate purposes as a company official, the following additional documents are required:

• Signature Circular: A notarized copy of the signature circular showing that you are authorized to sign on behalf of the company.

• Activity Certificate: A current activity certificate issued by the Chamber of Commerce within the last 6 months (3 months in some institutions).

• Power of Attorney: If someone other than the company official will apply, a notarized special power of attorney.

• Identity Document: The original identity card of the official who will make the application.

e-Signature Fees 2026: Current Price List

The amount you will pay when obtaining an e-signature is determined by the certificate period (1, 2, or 3 years), activation method, and hardware type. As of 2026, Cloud e-Signature options stand out as a more economical alternative since they do not require a physical device.

Average e-Signature Price Table (2026)

Note: Prices are approximate values including VAT. These figures may vary based on the periodic promotions of service provider companies (PTT, TurkTrust, E-Güven, etc.).

Factors Affecting e-Signature Prices

1. Hardware Type: If you choose a USB Token (smart card reader), the hardware fee will be added to the price. You save on this cost with cloud-based solutions.

2. Fast Delivery: VIP services such as on-site identity verification or delivery in 2 hours are charged extra.

3. Renewal Discount: If you renew before your current e-signature expires, you usually do not pay for new hardware, allowing you to benefit from more affordable prices.

How Long Does It Take to Get an e-Signature?

• Cloud e-Signature (Instant Activation): If you do not want a physical USB device (token) and prefer a cloud-based solution, you can start using your e-signature within seconds once your remote identity verification is approved.

• Physical Token (USB): Some private service providers verify your identity at your address and deliver your signature on the same day or within 24 hours after your application.

• Standard Courier Delivery: If courier delivery is preferred for packages with physical hardware; in metropolitan areas, delivery is completed within 1-2 business days, and in other cities, within 3-4 business days at the latest.

Where is e-Signature Used?

1. Public and Government Transactions

• e-Government Gateway: All transactions that require address change, passport application approval, and high-security identity verification.

• UYAP: Filing cases, document review, and all attorney transactions.

• EKAP: The process of submitting bids for public tenders.

2. Commercial and Corporate Use

• MERSİS: Company establishment, amendments to the articles of association, and registry transactions.

• Foreign Trade: Approval of customs declarations and export processes.

• Contract Management: Remote signing of employment contracts, dealership agreements, and confidentiality protocols.

3. Banking and Finance

• Credit Applications: Signing credit agreements without going to the branch.

• Order Transmission: Verification of high-value transfer orders given to banks.

4. Health and Other Areas

• e-Prescription and e-Report: Doctors' prescription writing and health report approval processes.

• Registered Electronic Mail (REM): Official e-correspondence with legal validity.

e-Signature or Financial Seal?

In simplest terms; an e-signature is a "signature" for a person, while a financial seal is a "stamp" for a company. For personal transactions and digital contracts, you should use e-signature; for approving your company's official tax processes like e-Invoice and e-Ledger, you should use a financial seal.

Warning: If you apply for renewal before your e-signature certificate expires (usually 3 years), you can extend your certificate online without the need to collect documents again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if I forget my e-Signature password? 

You can create a new PIN code through the "Forgot Password" option on your service provider's software, following the identity verification steps.

2. Can a sole proprietorship use e-signature?

Yes. In sole proprietorships, e-signature serves as a financial seal. Thus, business owners can easily handle e-invoice, e-archive, and e-ledger processes with their existing e-signature without paying an additional fee.

3. What should I do before my e-Signature expires?

You should apply for renewal before your e-signature's usage period expires (preferably 15-30 days before). If you apply before it expires, you can complete the process in seconds without leaving your place by approving online with your current e-signature. However, if the period fully expires, since your current signature will become invalid, you will need to undergo identity verification again (NFC or video call) just like in the initial application.

4. What is included in the e-Signature Price?

Hardware, software support, and certificate fee are included in the price.

5. Why is a 3-Year Package More Logical?

1-year packages require annual renewal and operational follow-up. In 3-year packages, the cost per unit year is approximately 30-40% more economical.

📌 Expert's Note: Don't Leave Your Business to Chance

Although digital transformation is accelerating, correct authorization and e-signature processes require technical precision. Choosing the wrong application type or mistakenly obtaining an e-signature instead of a financial seal can cost you both time and money. Therefore, it is recommended to clearly determine which document and certificate are suitable for you before starting the process.