European Digital Identity rules enter into force
Mobile phone laptop
(BRUSSELS) - The rules on establishing a European Digital Identity entered into force Monday, paving the way for all EU citizens and residents to benefit from a personal European Digital Identity Wallet in 2026.
The European Digital Identity Wallet will consist of a mobile app issued in each Member State. It will allow EU citizens and residents to identify online in full security to access public and private online services all over Europe.
"About two years from now, every European will be able to safely manage personal digital documents and access public and private online services with full control of personal data from a personal mobile app offered on a voluntary basis to all European citizens and residents,” said EC vice-president Margrethe Vestager.
With the EU Digital Identity Wallet, every user will be able to use online services, share digital documents such as a mobile driving license or an ePrescription, open bank accounts or make payments in full control of personal data.
In four large-scale pilots, the Commission has tested the EU Digital Identity Wallet in a range of everyday use-cases, including the Mobile Driving Licence, eHealth, payments, and education and professional qualifications, a second call for large-scale pilots to support the deployment of the wallets has just been published.
After entry into force of the new rules, the Commission will prepare implementing acts to ensure that all wallets feature the same high level of security and data protection and work seamlessly across the EU.
European Digital Identity - guide