The forthcoming adoption of the Regulation introducing European Digital Identity Wallets is in line with the so-called ‘Digital Decade 2030 Targets’. All EU citizens, without concerns about the security and protection of their personal data within the Community, would be able to obtain an EU digital identity wallet securing them access to various public and private network services.

The Digital Identity Wallet is intended to be used as an authentication mechanism by public authorities and by the very large online platforms within the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065. These entities are obliged by the law to identify their users. One of the objectives is to motivate also the private service providers to use the advantages of digital wallets as means of authenticating users within the services they provide. Another argument in the same direction is that by using the wallets, it will be easier for service providers to comply with regulatory standards.

Users will be able to digitally store identity documents in their wallet, including driving licenses, professional certificates, travel tickets, medical prescriptions, as well as to open bank accounts and make payments. The wallet will offer a user-friendly, practical and EU law-guaranteed alternative to electronic identification. The main objective is to provide the highest level of security, certified by independent bodies pursuant to uniform standards, whereas the user will maintain full control over the sharing of personal data.

Along with the listed features, the wallet will contain an accessible dashboard with all the operations the user can perform and it will provide the possibility to report suspected data breaches.

Once formally adopted, the Regulation introducing European Digital Identity Wallets will enter into force on the 20th day after its publication in the Official Journal of the EU. Member States shall make EU digital identity wallets available to their citizens within 24 months after the adoption of the Regulation’s Implementing Acts. These acts will define the technical specifications for the wallet and the technical requirements for certification. The Implementing Acts shall be adopted within 6 to 12 months as of the adoption of the Regulation.