Europe-wide digital identity: ]init[ supports the EUDI Wallet initiative

The EUDI Wallet is the key to simpler, more secure digital interaction in Europe. In the future, citizens and businesses should be able to conveniently manage digital credentials and authentication methods on their smartphones. To ensure the wallet is ready for practical use by 2027, we need clear information, coordinated processes, and a shared understanding.

As a signatory to the MoU between the Federal Ministry for Digital and State Modernization (BMDS) and Bitkom, we are actively contributing to ensuring that Europe creates a reliable and modern wallet solution that offers real added value in everyday life. To this end, we are applying our expertise where it is most critical right now: in the design of interfaces and the technical implementation of “Wallet Ready” processes in our digital projects for government, business, and society.

The general public must also be involved at an early stage: Together with the BMDS, Bitkom, and over 75 other signatories, we ensure transparency regarding services, certifications, and use cases. In this way, we build trust and facilitate widespread adoption. We also actively support the coordination and dialogue processes of this cross-industry initiative.

Background information on the EUDI Wallet 

What is the purpose of the EUDI Wallet?

The EU Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet) is a mobile digital wallet for EU citizens and businesses. It enables the secure storage and sharing of digital credentials such as ID cards, driver’s licenses, or diplomas. The EUDI Wallet is built on a unified technical foundation, allowing EUDI Wallets from individual member states to be used across Europe and across borders. The system is based on the eIDAS interoperability standards and meets high standards for data protection, security, and user control over their data.

What are the purpose and benefits of the EUDI Wallet?

The EUDI Wallet offers citizens simplified, fast access to digital services such as government portals and private services. As a reliable, EU-wide solution, the EUDI Wallet also reduces the administrative burden of authentication processes for businesses and public administrations. At the same time, the wallet strengthens data sovereignty because users themselves decide what information is shared.

What are the key features of the EUDI Wallet?

The EUDI Wallet is voluntary and free to use for all EU citizens and businesses. It is available as a mobile app for smartphones. In addition to managing digital certificates, a key feature is the qualified electronic signature, which allows Europeans to sign documents digitally in a legally binding manner.

A “Privacy Dashboard” also shows users when and what data about them has been shared and provides options for reporting data protection incidents. Furthermore, the wallet components must be open-source and publicly accessible, which builds trust and fosters innovation.

Essential for digital interoperability is a technical framework known as the “Architecture & Reference Framework”: This ensures that every national wallet app follows the same standards and is thus compatible across the EU. Setup is handled via existing electronic identification systems (“national eID”), which accelerates adoption.

Finally, the EUDI wallet is designed to meet the highest security requirements. These require strict identity verification during registration and include mechanisms for reporting data breaches to ensure maximum security for users.

What is the legal basis for the EUDI Wallet?

The EUDI Wallet is based on the eIDAS Regulation (“Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services”) and its extension through eIDAS 2.0, which entered into force on May 20, 2024. The latter requires all EU member states to provide a free and interoperable EUDI Wallet and defines technical, security-related, and data protection requirements. This is supplemented by Implementing Acts and architecture guidelines for the standardization of functions, interoperability, and certification.

When and how will the EUDI Wallet be introduced?

According to eIDAS 2.0, EU member states must provide their citizens with at least one EUDI wallet by the end of 2026 or 2027 at the latest. From that point on, wallets are to be available and accepted in both public and private services. The rollout will take the form of an app integrated with eID systems, accompanied by pilot projects and dialogue initiatives involving the business community and civil society. The goal is a practical solution that works across Europe and makes everyday life easier in the digital realm.