Overview#
The eSign API category provides a comprehensive suite of digital document signing solutions that enable secure, legally-binding electronic signatures using Aadhaar authentication. These APIs facilitate end-to-end document signing workflows, from initialization and user verification to document processing and retrieval of signed documents. The eSign solution streamlines document signing processes, eliminates paper-based workflows, and ensures compliance with Indian IT Act regulations for digital signatures.Parent Category: Root
Child Categories: None
APIs in this category: Initialize NSDL, Initialize NSDL with Stamp, Initialize SureSign, Initialize HSM, Get Upload Link, Set Branding, Upload PDF, Upload PDF via Link, Get Signed Document, Get Audit Trail, Get Status, Get Report
Key Capabilities#
Main Functionality
The eSign APIs enable secure electronic document signing through Aadhaar-based authentication, allowing businesses to implement paperless workflows with legally valid digital signatures. The solution supports both client-side document uploads and pre-uploaded document scenarios, with comprehensive audit trails and customizable branding options.
Secure Authentication
Multi-factor authentication using mobile OTP and Aadhaar verification ensures the signer's identity is properly validated before document signing.
Document Management
Complete document lifecycle management including upload, signing, retrieval, and verification with support for various document formats.
Compliance & Reporting
Comprehensive audit trails, status tracking, and reporting capabilities to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements and monitor signing processes.
Common Use Cases#
Loan agreement signing and processing
Insurance policy issuance and customer onboarding
Account opening and KYC documentation
Integration Considerations#
Best Practices
Implement proper error handling to manage potential failures in the OTP verification or Aadhaar authentication steps
Cache document IDs and session information to enable seamless recovery if the process is interrupted
Test the complete signing flow in a sandbox environment before deploying to production
Implement proper security measures to protect sensitive user information during the signing process
Aadhaar-based eSign requires the signer to have a valid Aadhaar number and access to the registered mobile number
Document size limitations may apply depending on the specific implementation
Network connectivity is required throughout the signing process, especially during the NSDL redirection steps
The signing process requires user interaction and cannot be fully automated
How APIs in this Category Work Together#
The eSign APIs work together to create a seamless document signing experience, starting with initialization and ending with the retrieval of the legally signed document. The APIs follow a logical sequence that guides users through authentication, document preparation, and the signing process.Key Integration Patterns:Initialize + Set Branding: Customize the signing experience with your organization's branding before starting the signing process
Get Upload Link + Upload PDF via Link: Generate a secure link for document upload and then use that link to upload the document to be signed
Initialize NSDL + Get Signed Document: Start the signing process with NSDL authentication and then retrieve the legally signed document after completion
Get Status + Get Audit Trail: Monitor the status of signing requests and retrieve comprehensive audit information for compliance purposes
A typical end-to-end workflow begins with initializing the SDK with authentication tokens, followed by user verification via mobile OTP. The document is then either uploaded by the user or accessed from a pre-uploaded location. The user is redirected to NSDL's interface for Aadhaar verification, after which the document is digitally signed. Finally, the signed document can be downloaded, with comprehensive audit trails available for record-keeping and compliance.The eSign API category complements several other API categories in the ecosystem, particularly those related to identity verification, document management, and compliance. These integrations enable comprehensive digital transformation of document-heavy processes.Related Categories include:Identity Verification: eSign relies on robust identity verification to ensure the authenticity of signers, making it a natural extension of KYC and identity verification processes
Document Management: eSign works closely with document storage, retrieval, and management systems to handle the complete lifecycle of legal documents
Workflow Automation: eSign can be integrated into broader workflow automation systems to create end-to-end paperless processes for various business operations
The eSign APIs are particularly powerful when combined with identity verification solutions for a complete KYC and document signing workflow. For example, a loan application process might begin with identity verification, proceed to document generation, continue with eSign for legally binding signatures, and conclude with document storage and retrieval capabilities. This creates a fully digital, legally compliant process that eliminates paper handling while maintaining regulatory compliance.