The present COVID-19 pandemic is requiring more of us than ever
to work remotely. This can raise particular challenges in terms of
the execution of documents, with physical "wet ink"
execution processes often proving to be unmanageable for many
signatories. This need not, however, create undue concern: British
Virgin Islands (BVI) law provides for a comprehensive and flexible
approach to electronic execution of documents.
Digital signatures
PDF scanned copies of signatures are accepted under BVI law with
no requirements for original documents or "wet ink"
signatures. In addition, digital signatures are generally permitted
under BVI law for documents other than deeds. A valid electronic
signature on documentation binds the signatory to all the terms of
the documentation, in just the same manner as a wet‐ink
signature on a document is taken to demonstrate the consent of the
signatory to the terms set out in the document.
