BAKU – In a significant overhaul to labor documentation, Azerbaijan has mandated the use of digital signatures for all labor contracts and amendments, following a presidential decree dated August 12, 2024.

According to Trend News Agency, the new regulations specify that labor contracts in Azerbaijan must be validated through the “Labor Relations and Employment” platform, part of the Centralized Electronic Information System of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection. Contracts can now be digitally signed using ‘SIMA’ digital signature, ‘SIMA Token’ electronic signature, or ‘ASAN Imza,’ with the ‘SIMA Imza’ app highlighted as the most user-friendly option, allowing contracts to be signed anytime, anywhere without the need for office visits or fees.

The integration of “SIMA Imza” into the system has notably reduced the need for citizens to visit customer service centers, cutting down on wait times for electronic signatures. Recent statistics reveal that over 150,000 labor contracts have been digitally signed using “SIMA Imza” within the last week alone, and about 40,000 users are registering on the app daily.

The new system also provides alternatives for non-smartphone users. Employers are expected to facilitate means for obtaining electronic signatures, and “AzInTelecom” LLC is developing a digital signature solution for these citizens. Despite the convenience, some users have reported difficulties during registration, particularly with biometric verification. Issues may occur due to light reflection during the process, unclear facial recognition, or recent aesthetic changes affecting biometric data.

The “SIMA Imza” registration employs advanced biometric technology and artificial intelligence to ensure secure and individualized user access. For assistance, users are encouraged to reach out to SIMA’s social media accounts or the Call Center at 157, while inquiries related to the “Labor Relations and Employment” subsystem should be directed to the “DOST Call Center” at 142.