Technology
Digital Seal
Also known as: CSD, Digital Seal Certificate
An electronic certificate linked to the e.firma used to authenticate and sign documents with VUCEM and other SAT systems.
What Is a Digital Seal (Sello Digital)?
A sello digital (digital seal) is an electronic certificate derived from the e.firma that allows individuals and legal entities to authenticate and sign electronic documents within specific SAT systems and other government platforms. Unlike the e.firma (which is for general use), digital seals are generated for specific purposes, and multiple seals can exist simultaneously for the same taxpayer.
Types of digital seals in customs
- Sello VUCEM: grants full access to all modules of Mexico's Single Window for Foreign Trade (VUCEM), including COVE, automatic notices, prior permits, and all electronic trade filings
- Sello COVE: limited access exclusively to creating Electronic Value Certificates (COVE) and e-documents. Does NOT grant access to MVE or other VUCEM modules
- CSD for invoicing (CFDI): a specific seal for issuing digital tax receipts, not directly related to customs operations
How to generate a digital seal
Digital seals are generated on the SAT Certifica platform (certifica.sat.gob.mx). The process requires: (1) a valid e.firma, (2) logging into SAT Certifica with the e.firma, (3) selecting the certificate usage type: 'VUCEM' for full access or 'COVE' for limited access, (4) downloading the new seal's .cer and .key files.
e.firma vs. digital seal
The e.firma is personal and non-transferable, identifies the taxpayer, and is required for filings demanding full identification (such as the MVE). The digital seal is an operational extension that can be delegated; for example, a customs broker can use their VUCEM seal to sign COVEs on their own behalf, but cannot use their seal to sign a client's MVE. The MVE mandatorily requires the importer's e.firma.
Validity and renewal
Digital seals are valid for 4 years, the same as the e.firma. If the e.firma is revoked or expires, all associated digital seals become inactive. Maintaining a renewal calendar is essential to avoid interruptions in customs operations.
Examples
- A customs broker generates a VUCEM Seal on SAT Certifica to sign COVEs, file prior permits, and access all single-window modules.
- An assistant dispatcher receives a COVE Seal that allows creating electronic value certificates but does not grant access to VUCEM permit modules.
- A customs brokerage configures its dispatch system with the digital seal to automatically sign COVEs for each operation without using the principal's e.firma.
Related terms
Technology
Electronic Signature (e.firma)
A digital certificate issued by Mexico's SAT that identifies individuals and entities, used to electronically sign documents with legal validity.
RegulationsVUCEM (Single Window)
Mexican government's electronic platform that centralizes all foreign trade procedures in a single digital window.
DocumentsCOVE (Electronic Value Voucher)
Electronic document that certifies the declared value of goods in the customs declaration, transmitted through Mexico's VUCEM system.
CustomsCustoms Broker
A licensed individual authorized by Mexico's tax authority (SAT) to process customs clearance of goods on behalf of importers and exporters.
