Next - Voices from the Future | EUDI wallet: what is it and what features does the new digital identity wallet include?

The evolution of digitalization in Europe is about to take a decisive step forward with the introduction of the European Digital Identity (EUDI) Wallet, set to become operational across Europe starting in 2026. This innovative solution emerges as part of the revision of the eIDAS 2 (electronic Identification, Authentication, and Trust Services) regulation, aiming to provide European citizens with a secure, reliable, and universally recognized digital identity.
The EUDI Wallet will be a digital wallet enabling European citizens to securely store, manage, and share their identity documents and other digital credentials. This system will simplify access to public and private services across all EU countries while enhancing security and data protection. An example of a Digital Identity Wallet already in use in Italy is the IO App, which has integrated wallet functionalities and allows users to register some identification documents.

The EUDI Wallet will allow users to store various essential documents and credentials, including:
•    Electronic ID card and passport
•    Driver’s license
•    Health insurance card
•    Voter card
•    University credentials and professional certificates
•    Banking details and payment certificates

The introduction of a European digital identity offers numerous benefits, making service access easier and improving online security.

Here are some key opportunities provided by this new wallet:

1.    Secure and universally recognized digital identification: While individual EU countries will maintain their identification systems, the EUDI Wallet will establish a shared framework to ensure a common identification standard across Europe.
2.    Greater control over personal data and selective disclosure: Users will decide what information to share and with whom, increasing privacy and transparency. However, this does not mean unrestricted access to services; rather, users will have the freedom to share only essential information.
3.    Simplified bureaucratic procedures: Instant registration for public and private services without repeatedly entering personal data, reducing access friction.
4.    Secure and integrated digital payments: The EUDI Wallet will not only serve as a digital ID but will also integrate online payment tools, ensuring seamless service access and use.
5.    Easier access to healthcare services: The EUDI Wallet will also advance the concept of the Electronic Health Record and health insurance card, consolidating these into a single tool.
6.    Enhanced travel experience: By storing both an ID card and a driver’s license, the Digital Identity Wallet will simplify hotel check-ins, car rentals, airport security screenings, and more.
7.    Facilitated access to private services: From opening a bank account to easier access to financing services, entry barriers will be further reduced thanks to the issuance of Verifiable Credentials by both public and private entities.

Although security standards are still being defined, the EUDI Wallet will adopt the most advanced measures, including end-to-end encryption and authentication technologies to minimize fraud and cyber threats. The fundamental goal is to ensure that all European citizens can use the service easily and intuitively, leveraging it not only for public services but also for private ones. Furthermore, the development of the EUDI Wallet will help unify different identification methods across Europe. From Estonia’s e-Residency system to Sweden’s and the UK’s banking ID solutions, the Digital Identity Wallet will serve as a single identification tool on a European scale.

These are just some of the possibilities introduced by the Digital Identity Wallet, marking a historic milestone in the digitalization of European services. While not mandatory, it will provide all EU citizens with simplified, secure, and transparent access to a wide range of public and private services. The digitalization of identity will not only enhance our daily experiences but also strengthen trust and security in Europe’s digital landscape.