eIDAS 2.0 – A New Era of Secure Digital Identification in the EU

With the dynamic development of digital technologies, secure online identification is becoming increasingly crucial for the functioning of the economy and society. In response to these needs, the European Union is introducing a revision of regulations aimed at raising security standards and improving the convenience of using online services.

On February 29, 2024, the European Parliament adopted the amendment to the eIDAS regulation (referred to as eIDAS 2.0), establishing the European Digital Identity Framework. The proposed changes in the regulation cover three areas:

• introducing the European Digital Identity Wallet (EU Digital ID Wallet), which in Poland will be an enhanced version of mObywatel, allowing its use throughout the European Union and in the private sector.
• electronic confirmation of attributes, equivalent to traditional plastic or paper documents, will be issued in electronic form, bearing an electronic seal. Such confirmation will be recognized by courts and public institutions, and everyone will be able to use the Digital Identity Wallet for receiving, storing, and sharing electronic attribute confirmations.
• a qualified electronic signature in the Digital Identity Wallet will be available to any individual for private purposes.

eIDAS 2.0, as an expanded version of the previous initiative, aims to increase trust in digital services by improving authentication and authorization mechanisms. Its main goal is to ensure greater consistency and interoperability between digital identification systems in different EU member countries. The implementation of eIDAS 2.0 opens up new perspectives for the free flow of data and digital services in a unified market.

One of the key elements of eIDAS 2.0 is the Digital Identity Wallet. This innovative tool is designed to allow European citizens to securely and conveniently store, manage, and use their digital identities, significantly facilitating the use of online services. Thanks to the wallet, users will have exclusive control over the sharing and use of digital identifiers, identity documents, and various attestations and certificates related to their person.

The Digital Identity Wallet is designed to provide users with control over their data and enable them to consent to its use in accordance with personal data protection regulations. This is a significant step towards strengthening the rights of Internet users and protecting their privacy in the online environment.

Furthermore, the EU digital wallet should feature interoperability, meaning it should be compatible with various digital identification systems in the EU. This allows users to freely access online services throughout the Union, regardless of the country they are in, significantly enhancing digital mobility in Europe.

In conclusion, eIDAS 2.0 and the Digital Identity Wallet are crucial tools contributing to the elevation of security standards and the convenience of using digital services in the EU. Their implementation can bring a range of benefits for both citizens and businesses, improving digital mobility and increasing trust in online transactions. eIDAS 2.0, regulating the introduction of the EU Digital ID Wallet, represents a step forward in online security.