How to Sign a PDF on iPhone for Free — 3 Methods Compared

Method 1: Apple Markup (Built into iOS)

The fastest way to sign a PDF on iPhone uses Apple's built-in Markup feature. No app installation, works offline, and your signature is saved for next time.

Step-by-step:

1. Open the PDF in Files, Mail, or Safari.
2. Tap the Markup icon (a pen tip).
3. Tap the + button (bottom-right corner) → Signature.
4. If you have no saved signature: draw with your finger, tap Done. iOS saves it.
5. Tap the saved signature to insert it. Drag and resize to position.
6. Tap Done top-left, save changes.

Pros: Native, fast, works offline, signature saved.
Cons: Limited styling, no fonts, no precision placement on multi-page documents, no audit trail.

Method 2: Apple Files App + Mark up

If the PDF is in iCloud Drive or another cloud service connected to Files, you can sign it without leaving the app.

1. Open Files app.
2. Long-press the PDF → Mark Up.
3. Same flow as Method 1.

Best for: documents already in iCloud or Dropbox.

Method 3: BunnyConvert (More Style Control)

If Apple Markup feels too basic — you want a typed signature in elegant cursive, multi-page placement, or saved profile — try BunnyConvert's Sign PDF tool. It runs in your iPhone's Safari (or our iOS app, coming soon) and your file never uploads to a server.

Step-by-step:

1. Open bunnyconvert.com/sign-pdf in Safari.
2. Upload your PDF (or paste from share menu).
3. Type your name in 4 cursive fonts (Caveat, Dancing Script, Allura, Satisfy), draw your signature with your finger, or upload a saved signature image.
4. Tap "Fullscreen" → drag the signature exactly where you need it. Switch pages with ‹ ›.
5. Hit Convert → download the signed PDF. No watermark.

Pros: Multiple cursive fonts, full-page preview, precise drag-and-drop, free, no signup, files stay on your device.
Cons: Browser-based (until our iOS app launches).

Are e-signatures legally binding in 2026?

Yes, in most countries, for most document types. Key laws:

• USA: ESIGN Act (2000) and UETA make electronic signatures legally equivalent to wet ink signatures for most contracts.
• EU: eIDAS Regulation recognizes three levels: Simple, Advanced, and Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES). QES is required for some legal acts.
• UK: Electronic Communications Act 2000 + post-Brexit eIDAS retention.
• Turkey: 5070 sayılı Elektronik İmza Kanunu — e-imza accepted for most documents; nitelikli elektronik imza needed for some legal acts.

Exceptions (often need wet ink or QES): wills, real estate transfers, divorce decrees, some court filings.

For everyday contracts — NDAs, freelance agreements, lease addendums, invoices — drawn or typed e-signatures are legally enforceable.

Which method should you use?