The electronic signature for freelance contracts

Can a freelance contract be signed online?

As a human resources professional, you are called upon by various departments within the company to recruit an external professional on an ad hoc basis. This is practical and arguably less restrictive than signing a fixed-term contract, however, you still need to legally secure this collaboration.

A freelance contract for the provision of services to support a mission will need to be signed. While, logically, the contract’s terms are the responsibility of the requesting department, it is up to you, as HR, to ensure the contract is signed by both parties.

Time can be short… especially when the project is due to start the day after the contract has been signed! Freelancers are not always geographically close, which can make it complicated to set up a physical meeting to sign the contract at the soonest possible date. Not to mention, you probably don’t have time to waste for such an appointment!

An obvious solution to save time, while keeping the peace of mind that comes with a properly signed agreement: the electronic signature. Digital signatures are monitored by eIDAS, the governing body who approves the solutions and companies certified to implement this process.

Careful! Freelancers often carry out their professional activity by working for various companies (who may be competitors). The most prudent action as an HR professional is, therefore, to have them also sign a confidentiality agreement. As with the freelance contract, this agreement can be sealed with a digital signature, which provides a multitude of advantages in this area.

Your country's legislation may require a specific level of electronic signature. The Yousign team will be able to provide you with the corresponding solution.