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OpenSign

Open-source electronic signature platform for document signing without per-envelope fees

Overview

OpenSign is an open-source electronic signature platform that eliminates the per-envelope fees of DocuSign, HelloSign, and other SaaS signing tools. Upload a document, add signature fields, send it to signers, and get a legally binding signed document with a full audit trail.

For businesses that send dozens or hundreds of documents per month, the savings are significant: DocuSign charges $10-35 per envelope on most plans, while self-hosted OpenSign is free for unlimited signatures.

Key Features

  • Document Signing — Upload PDF, add fields, send for signature
  • Multiple Signers — Sequential or parallel signing workflows
  • Audit Trail — Timestamped log of all signing events
  • Templates — Save documents as reusable templates
  • REST API — Integrate signing into your applications
  • Email Notifications — Automatic reminders to pending signers

Pricing: Self-Hosted vs DocuSign

Users DocuSign OpenSign (self-hosted) Savings
10 docs/mo $100-350/mo (DocuSign) $5/mo (VPS) $95-345/mo
50 docs/mo $500-1,750/mo (DocuSign) $5/mo (VPS) $495-1,745/mo
200 docs/mo $2,000-7,000/mo (DocuSign) $10/mo (VPS) $1,990-6,990/mo
Unlimited Custom (DocuSign) $10/mo (VPS) 99%+

Pros

  • + Unlimited signatures on self-hosted
  • + Audit trail for legal compliance
  • + Multiple signers and signing order
  • + REST API for integration
  • + Growing community and active development

Cons

  • - Younger project — less mature than Documenso
  • - Fewer template options
  • - UI is functional but not as polished
  • - Limited integrations currently

Deployment Options for OpenSign

🐳

Docker

Self-host with Docker Compose

🚀

Coolify

One-click via Coolify panel

☁️

Elestio

Managed hosting from $9/mo

🫛

PikaPods

Simple managed hosting

Frequently Asked Questions

Are OpenSign signatures legally binding?
E-signatures are legally binding under ESIGN Act (US), eIDAS (EU), and similar laws in most countries. OpenSign provides audit trails that satisfy legal requirements for standard business documents.
OpenSign vs Documenso?
Documenso is more mature with a larger community and more polished UI. OpenSign is newer but also actively developed. Both eliminate per-envelope fees.
Can I integrate OpenSign with my app?
Yes. OpenSign provides a REST API for creating documents, adding signers, and tracking signature status programmatically.
What about advanced signing (qualified signatures)?
OpenSign supports standard electronic signatures. For qualified electronic signatures (eIDAS QES), you'd still need a certified provider.

Our Verdict

OpenSign is an open-source electronic signature platform that eliminates the per-envelope fees of DocuSign, HelloSign, and other SaaS signing tools. Upload a document, add signature fields, send it to...

Best for: Businesses sending many documents for signature who want to eliminate per-envelope costs