Why handwritten signatures are required for Export Document applications

When submitting documentation, it is important that the applicant have the document signed correctly. We have recently seen an increase in applications being rejected because the document was digitally signed.

For UK COO and UK EUR1 applications the declaration must be signed by a handwritten signature. This means when you make your application, the signature must be written by hand and uploaded into your application. Typed names or digital signatures do not meet requirements and will lead to rejected applications. Please note in some cases for UK EUR1 certificates an uploaded handwritten signature may not be accepted and you would need to physically sign the document.

Similarly, when requesting commercial documents be stamped the signature must also be handwritten. This can be done by signing a copy of the document and uploading it when making the application or sending in a signed physical copy of the document.

Handwritten signatures confirm the declarant personally verified the document and accepts responsibility for its accuracy.

Ensuring documents are signed by hand helps avoid unnecessary delays in your application process.