What’s an ASiCE file: How to Open and Sign ASiCE Documents?

2023-02-14

If you get to review and sign a lot of documents and contracts for work, you’ve probably come across many different file formats. You might have signed the most common file formats like PDF and the lesser-known, like ASiCE, ADoc, BDoc, XML, or CMS. These document formats sound like cryptic codes, but in this article, we’ll figure out what they are, how and where to use them, and how to open and sign ASiCE files.

So, let’s go!

Document formats and how to sign them with an electronic signature

Most companies and people use a simple PDF or word format to sign documents. In most cases, you can open these files using preinstalled programs on your device (computer, phone, tablet, etc.). But you might encounter other formats that are a bit more confusing:

  • The XML format is mainly used to save textual information, and just like PDFs, you can open and read XML documents using preinstalled programs. If you have to sign this type of document, you can do so using a XAdES e-signature.
  • CMS, or Cryptographic Message Syntax, is a format known for its high security. You can use CAdES electronic signatures to sign CMS files.
  • ASiCE is a so-called file container officially approved and used in the European Union. The advantage of this format is that you can store multiple different format files like XML, PDF, CMS, etc., and sign them all at once.
  • ADoc, BDoc, EDoc just like ASiCE, these formats are document containers but used in different countries. For example, ADoc is primarily used by governmental institutions in Lithuania, BDoc in Estonia, and EDoc in Latvia.
Document formats and how to sign them

What is the ASiCE file format?

ASiCE (Associated Signature Containers) is a document container recognized in the EU and approved by European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). This file container is mostly used by governmental and public organizations because of its safety features and capacity to store multiple files, signatures, and time stamps. It makes it easier to share compressed files and sign them without losing valuable data. It works similarly to a ZIP format, where you can share and access different files in one container.

ASiCE file format benefits

  • Better data security — when you share multiple files with multiple people, you risk losing some documents or crucial details like signatures. When all documents arrive in one container, signatures, data, and time stamps stay intact.
  • Safe Asic electronic signature options — ASiCE format protects inside data and signatures by keeping their metadata unchanged. Documents can’t be separated from their signatures and time stamps, no matter how many people pass them around. 

How to open and use ASiCE documents?

ASiCE documents are a great option to send multiple files and ensure their security. However, without the right tools, you can’t open ASiCE files. To open an ASiCE file, you need a special program. For example, some governmental institutions like The Lithuanian State Tax Inspectorate allow opening such files, but you might also need an additional program to sign them.

You can find many platforms online that allow you to access ASiCE files. If you downloaded and installed one of such programs, go to the ASiCE file, right-click on it, choose “open with,” and pick the right program. However, you should always be extra careful when using programs from the internet as they might expose you to cyberattacks and malware. People in Lithuania can also generate and sign ADoc documents (a format used in Lithuania) on The Office of the Chief Archivist of Lithuania website.

Document formats and how to sign them
Electronic Signature Concept, Electronic Signing Businessman signs electronic documents on digital documents on virtual laptop screen using stylus pen.

How can you sign ASiCE files using Mark Sign qualified electronic signature?

While all these document formats might still sound confusing, the good news is that you can open and sign ASiCE files on the Mark Sign self-service platform. Not only can you open and view the file content, but you can also use our qualified electronic signature to sign and share them with your colleagues. 

A qualified electronic signature is different from other digital signatures because it has all the legal power, just like the handwritten one. Mark Sign qualified signature is valid worldwide, it’s compliant with GDPR requirements, and it ensures the highest security standard. 

Here’s how you use it to sign ASiCE files:

  1. Go to marksign.eu and log in to your account using Smart-ID, Mobile-ID, ZealiD, USB token, or a smart card. If you don’t have an account, you can register and try 5 qualified electronic signatures for free with a plan Start
  2. When you log in to your account, go to the Document section and select Upload a document.
  3. Select the ASiCE file you wish to open and upload it. 
  4. Now, you just need to confirm your identity and sign the document. And Voila — you have it!

Also, it’s worth mentioning that documents signed using a qualified e-signature are valid for 6 years on our platform. If you don’t change anything, the signature validity is extended after this time. 

A safe and simple way to sign your documents with a qualified e-signature

Don’t waste more time browsing the net for tools to open and sign ASiCE files. Make your life easier with Mark Sign. Join the self-service platform where you and your colleagues can manage documents and sign them. The platform allows you to open different document formats (ASiCE included), and you can also:

  • Create different document categories and manage your data easily.
  • Use one account for your whole team and company to share documents securely.
  • Be sure that your documents are secured using the highest security standard.

Learn more about the Mark Sign self-service platform and the benefits for your business, and don’t forget to invite your team to register!

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