eIDAS 2.0 Regulation Opens the Door to Digital Identification in EU

The EU has reached a provisional agreement on a new framework for digital identity that expands its electronic identification, authentication and trust services regulation (eIDAS) from government to commercial operations.

The framework enables the creation of a European digital identity wallet. Its purpose is to simplify access to services while strengthening safeguards around personal information.

All EU citizens will be able to access government and commercial online services throughout Europe with their digital identification. A mobile super app will allow users to share their identification, backed by the highest level of trust through the EU government and the member states, without exposing such personal details as age, address or birth date.

A Snapshot of eIDAS 2.0

The amended European Digital Identity Regulation (eIDAS 2.0), requires member states issue a digital wallet built on common technical standards.

Each member state will provide free validation mechanisms to verify the wallet and the person’s identity. The issuance, use and revocation will also be free.

The regulation is expected to go into force by the end of summer 2024. Implementing legislation is likely to be adopted as soon as six months after that.

The first wallets are expected to appear in member states by the end of 2026.

eIDAS 2.0 Compliance and Benefits

The wallets can help consumers quickly and securely sign up for commercial services, which could expand customer bases and streamline user experiences. Additional benefits could include:

• More manageable compliance
• Improved security and simplified onboarding
• Trusted relationships that lead to additional services
• Expanded cross-border opportunities through EU market

Organizations can start preparing for the changes now. That could involve integration planning as well as developing strategies for how they will deliver digital services.

There also will be challenges. The digital wallets, for instance, will be only one of many potential verification methods during onboarding, putting organizations in the position of matching customer preferences. 

Organizations will also need time to understand the new requirements, make sure their technology aligns with the digital wallets and establish internal protocols. 

The eIDAS 2.0 framework presents the next frontier of digital security, privacy and interoperability in Europe. Organizations have an opportunity to prepare for it now and position themselves as leaders in a new digital ecosystem.