EU to roll out new digital ID

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The European Union is preparing a new digital identification solution for its citizens and residents. 

This initiative aims to simplify the way Europeans prove their identity, both online and offline, allowing easier access to public and private services across the EU, according to a report by Postal.

What is the EU Digital Identity?

The EU Digital Identity will be an alternative to the current Citizen Card and other physical identification documents. This solution will be made available to all eligible citizens and residents, enabling them to have a digital means to prove their identity and store personal information.

How it will work?

Digital Identity will be operated through a digital wallet, accessible through mobile applications and other devices. This system will allow users to:

• Identify themselves digitally in online and offline contexts
• Store and share government-provided information such as first name, last name, date of birth and nationality
• Save and use documents originating from trusted private entities
• Use the data as proof of residence, right to work or access to services in any Member State

Pilot projects

Before widespread adoption, the European Union is testing Digital Identity in pilot projects. These tests were launched on 1 April 2023 and involve more than 250 companies and public entities in 25 Member States, as well as Norway, Iceland and Ukraine.

Currently, digital identification systems offered by Member State governments have limitations. Many of these solutions are not accessible to the entire population and only allow identification for online public services, without ensuring uniform access across countries.

Only 14% of essential public service providers in the European Union allow cross-border authentication with an electronic identity system. Furthermore, the use of this type of identification for international transactions is still limited.