Yes, electronic signatures are valid for Belgian leases
A qualified electronic signature (QES) via itsme or eID has the same legal value as a handwritten signature under the eIDAS Regulation and Belgian law. An electronically signed lease is fully enforceable and can be registered on MyRent.
Belgian law does not require a handwritten signature for a lease to be valid. The Code of Economic Law (Article XII.15) explicitly recognises the legal equivalence of qualified electronic signatures with manuscript signatures.
This means a lease signed electronically via itsme, eID, or any certified qualified signature provider is:
- Legally binding between the parties
- Registrable with the SPF Finances via MyRent
- Admissible as evidence in court proceedings
- Opposable to third parties once registered
Which type of electronic signature is accepted?
There are three levels of electronic signature under eIDAS:
| Level | Examples | Valid for a lease? |
|---|---|---|
| Simple | Click-to-sign, email confirmation | Not recommended — weak legal certainty |
| Advanced (AES) | DocuSign, Adobe Sign with identity verification | Accepted by Belgian courts |
| Qualified (QES) | itsme, Belgian eID | Recommended — full legal equivalence |
The qualified electronic signature (QES) offers the strongest legal protection. It is the only level that has automatic legal equivalence with a handwritten signature, without needing to prove its reliability.
BailBelgique integrates itsme and eID signing directly into its lease creation workflow. Both landlord and tenant can sign remotely with a qualified signature.
Registration and court validity
An electronically signed lease can be registered via MyRent just like a traditionally signed lease. The SPF Finances accepts PDF files with embedded electronic signatures.
In court proceedings, a lease bearing a qualified electronic signature cannot be challenged on the grounds of its electronic form. The judge must treat it as equivalent to a handwritten signature. For advanced electronic signatures (AES), the court may request additional proof of the signatory’s identity.
The inventory of fixtures can also be signed electronically using the same methods.
Regional specifics
Brussels-Capital Region
Brussels legislation fully recognises electronic signatures for residential leases. No additional formality is required beyond the eIDAS-compliant signature.
Walloon Region
The Walloon decree on residential leases accepts all forms of qualified electronic signature. The written form requirement is satisfied by an electronic document bearing a QES.
Flemish Region
The Flemish Housing Rental Decree recognises electronic signatures meeting the eIDAS standard. The mandatory lease template can be completed and signed electronically.
eIDAS Regulation (EU) No 910/2014, Art. 25(2) + Belgian Code of Economic Law, Art. XII.15 — Qualified electronic signatures have the equivalent legal effect of handwritten signatures.