The EU Digital Identity Wallet and the future of electronic signatures

The EU Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet) is set to revolutionise the way we identify ourselves and sign documents online. With the eIDAS 2 regulation, Europe is taking a major step towards a unified and secure digital identity. For businesses dealing with digital contracts and signatures, it is therefore high time to prepare for this transition.

Navigating business change with the EUDI Wallet

From November 2027, it will be mandatory for both public and private organisations to support login to the EUDI Wallet. Companies offering digital services will therefore need to integrate this new identity solution into their systems. Some of the key benefits include:

• Standardised identification, one digital wallet works in all EU countries.
• User-controlled data sharing, the individual decides what information is shared and with whom.
• Higher security and privacy, the system is trusted by authorities.

“Companies that by law or contract require strong authentication, such as banks, must be ready for this transition.”
Peter Carlstedt, CLO at Scrive, emphasises the importance of preparation.

Electronic signatures and eIDAS 2

One of the most transformative changes of the EUDI Wallet is that it enables qualified electronic signatures (QES) directly in the wallet. This means that both businesses and individuals can sign legally binding documents with the highest legal validity, without the need for separate signing solutions.

This brings evident value:

• Easy and secure signing, no extra tools or apps needed.
• Interoperability across the EU, the same solution works across national borders.
• Reduced administration and faster business processes, fewer manual steps.

“We at Scrive are actively working to ensure that our customers can sign documents with Scrive QES directly through the EU digital identity wallet.”
Peter Carlstedt, CLO at Scrive.

National readiness

While the introduction of the wallet means unification in many ways, implementation strategies varies between EU Member States:

• Sweden: DIGG is developing a Swedish EUDI Wallet, the Police is responsible for state e-identification, and PTS has supervisory responsibility.
• Italy: First with a digital wallet supporting mobile driving licence and health card.
• Germany: Creating a national prototype through a public innovation competition.

What should businesses do now?

The EUDI Wallet and eIDAS 2 will fundamentally change the digital landscape and it is advisable to consider if your organisation is ready:

• Understand the legal requirements: How do eIDAS 2 and EUDI Wallet affect your business?
• Review your signing solutions: Do you use qualified electronic signatures?
• Plan for integration: How can you smoothly implement the new identity solution?

Opinions are divided on whether the EU’s aggressive timetable will be met, but one thing is certain: the future of digital identity is almost here.