# How to open an ASiC-E file you just received

> Someone sent you a file ending in `.asice` and you have never seen one before. This is a calm walkthrough for a first encounter: what the file is, how to open an ASiC-E file, and what to answer the sender.

Source: https://asiceviewer.com/en/blog/how-to-open-an-asice-file/
Published: 2026-11-10 · Digixy

## In short

- The file is a digitally signed document package, common in Estonia and the Baltics.
- Open it in the browser at [asiceviewer.com](https://asiceviewer.com/en/#tool); nothing needs installing.
- If you are asked to sign it too, you need signing software and an electronic identity.

## What you have received

An `.asice` file is the digital equivalent of a signed paper. A bank, employer, landlord, notary or public authority has put a document in an electronic envelope and sealed it with a digital signature. In the European Union such a signature can carry the same legal weight as a handwritten one.

## Is it safe to open?

Yes, with a viewer. A container holds documents, not programs. Viewing it in a browser displays the documents without executing anything. Apply the usual care: if you did not expect the message, confirm with the sender through another channel.

## Open it, step by step

1. **Download the attachment.** Remember which folder it went to, usually Downloads.
2. **Open asiceviewer.com** in your normal browser.
3. **Drag the file onto the page**, or click the box and choose it.
4. **Read the document** that appears on the right.
5. **Look at the left side**: the names under Signatures are the people who signed.

## Understand what you see

| On screen | Meaning |
| A name with a date and time | That person signed at that moment |
| "Integrity OK" | The document has not been changed since signing |
| Two signature cards | Two people have signed |
| No signature cards | The container has not been signed yet |

## What does the sender want from you?

- **"Here is your signed copy."** Nothing more to do. Keep the `.asice` file; it is your proof.
- **"Please sign and return."** You need DigiDoc4 and an ID-card, Mobile-ID or Smart-ID. Open the file there, add your signature and send the file back.
- **"Please confirm receipt."** Reply normally. Opening the file does not sign anything.

## Keep the original

Save the `.asice` file itself in a safe place. A PDF copied out of it is convenient for reading, but only the container proves who signed. If you read on a phone, the [Android app](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.digixy.asiceviewer&hl=en&referrer=utm_source%3Dasiceviewer.com%26utm_medium%3Dblog-md) can store and reopen it offline. For the background, see [what is an ASiC-E file](https://asiceviewer.com/en/blog/what-is-an-asice-file/).

## Frequently asked questions

**Did I sign something by opening the file?**

No. Opening or viewing a container never creates a signature. Signing requires a deliberate action with your PIN.

**I am not in Estonia. Can I still open the file?**

Yes. A browser-based viewer works anywhere, and the format is a European standard.

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Open your .asice file now: https://asiceviewer.com/en/
ASiC-E Viewer on Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.digixy.asiceviewer