Receiving the signature request
When someone sends you a document to sign, you will receive an email from ArcaSign with the subject “You have a document pending signature”. The email includes a unique, secure link.
Accessing the document
Click View and sign document. You do not need an ArcaSign account to sign — the link takes you directly to the document.
Reviewing the document
Read the full document before signing. You can download a preview copy as a PDF to review it more comfortably.
Choose how to sign
ArcaSign offers you two ways to sign the same document:
- Handwritten signature: draw your signature directly in the browser. No certificate and nothing to install.
- BCCR certified digital signature: use your card and the desktop signer app. It has the same legal validity as a handwritten signature before a notary (Costa Rica, Law 8454).
Sign by hand
- Choose Sign by hand.
- Draw your signature in the box with your mouse or finger.
- Confirm the signature.
Sign with a BCCR certified digital signature
- The first time, install ArcaSign’s desktop signer app when the system prompts you.
- Connect your signing device (card or USB).
- Click Sign with digital signature.
- The signer app will detect your certificate.
- Enter your PIN when the system requests it.
- Confirm the signature.
Signature completed
Once signed, you will receive by email a copy of the document with your signature embedded. The sender is also notified immediately.
Common problems
- The certificate is not detected: make sure the desktop signer app is installed and the card reader is connected before signing.
- PIN blocked: contact the BCCR directly to unblock your certificate.
- Link expired: ask the sender to resend the document.