Why digital contracts matter
The shift from paper to digital has transformed HR processes. Paper contracts slow down hiring, require physical meetings and pose archiving challenges. By contrast, electronic signatures (e‑signatures) allow work contracts to be completed remotely with full legal validity. Adoption of e‑signature solutions surged during the COVID‑19 pandemic: by 2020, 39 % of French organisations were equipped with an e‑signature solution; 25 % planned to implement one and 70 % accelerated adoption during the pandemic[8]. Today, digital contracts and payslips are becoming standard for interim work.
The legal framework
- eIDAS regulation. The EU’s eIDAS (Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services) regulation sets out the rules for electronic signatures. It recognises three levels:
- Simple signature: basic electronic data (e.g., a scanned signature) with limited security.
- Advanced signature: uniquely linked to the signatory, created using secure means and capable of detecting any changes. Employment contracts in France typically use advanced signatures[8].
- Qualified signature: the highest level, requiring a qualified certificate and secure signature creation device.
- French labour law. Employment contracts can be concluded electronically. Employers must provide a copy of the contract and ensure employees have easy access to it.
- Document archiving and digital vaults. Contracts and payslips must be stored in secure electronic vaults. Platforms like Pixid note that these vaults comply with the ISO 14641:2018 standard, guaranteeing document integrity and confidentiality[8].
Adoption and trends
E‑signature solutions are no longer optional. Over one‑third of organisations have implemented them, and a significant share accelerated digitalisation during the pandemic[8]. Beyond signatures, digital payslips are now widely adopted. A growing number of temp agencies provide end‑of‑mission certificates, payslips and employment records via digital vaults. This trend is expected to continue as remote work remains common and as employers recognise the efficiency gains.
Benefits of digital contracts
- Speed and efficiency. Contracts can be signed within hours[8], allowing employers to onboard workers quickly. Automation reduces administrative workload and mitigates errors.
- Cost savings. Digital solutions eliminate printing, postage and physical storage costs. They also reduce the risk of lost documents or signature errors.
- Sustainability. Paperless processes reduce environmental impact.
- Improved employee experience. Workers can sign from any device and access their documents securely online[8]. This flexibility is particularly important for interim workers who may be on assignment far from a physical agency.
- Legal security and compliance. Advanced signatures ensure authenticity and integrity. Secure vaults protect sensitive data and provide a tamper‑evident audit trail[8].
Implementing digital contracts – best practices
- Choose a compliant provider. Select a platform that meets eIDAS requirements and offers advanced and qualified signatures. Verify that it complies with ISO 14641:2018 for document archiving[8].
- Map your workflow. Define when and how contracts are generated, signed and archived. Integrate the e‑signature solution with your HR or ATS system to automate reminders and approvals.
- Educate stakeholders. Train HR teams, managers and employees on the process. Explain how signatures are verified and how to access archived documents.
- Protect personal data. Ensure GDPR compliance. Only authorised personnel should access digital vaults.
- Audit and monitor. Use the platform’s audit trail to verify who signed what and when. Regular audits ensure ongoing compliance and help identify any anomalies.
Conclusion
Digital contracts and e‑signatures are now integral to interim work. By simplifying hiring, strengthening legal security and improving user experience, they enable companies to scale staffing operations quickly. For businesses seeking to remain competitive in 2026 and beyond, implementing a robust digital contract workflow is no longer optional—it is a necessity.
FAQ
Are advanced electronic signatures legally binding for employment contracts? Yes. Under the eIDAS regulation, advanced signatures have legal value for work contracts in France[8]. They guarantee the signatory’s identity and detect any alteration of the document.
Is it safe to store contracts and payslips digitally? Yes, when archived in certified digital vaults. Platforms must comply with the ISO 14641:2018 standard to ensure document integrity and confidentiality[8].
Do employees need special equipment to sign digitally? No. Most solutions allow signing via SMS or email verification. Employees need only a device with internet access.
Call to action
Digital contracts and e‑signatures are becoming the norm for interim staffing. Implementing them reduces time to hire, lowers costs and provides a seamless employee experience. Ready to go paperless? Contact Morgan to adopt a secure, compliant e‑signature workflow and accelerate your staffing operations.
