eIDcredentials

eID credentials are electronic identity credentials used to prove a person’s identity and to sign or encrypt data in online transactions. They are typically stored on secure elements such as government-issued smart cards, USB tokens, or mobile devices, and they rely on public key cryptography and digital certificates issued by a recognized authority.

In the European Union, eID credentials are a key part of the eIDAS framework, which aims to enable cross-border recognition of electronic identities for accessing public services online. This allows a user from one member state to authenticate to online portals in another state using their national eID, subject to agreed levels of assurance and privacy protections.

A typical credential includes personal data, a private key stored securely, a corresponding public key, and a digital certificate issued by a government or trusted authority. Some systems also incorporate biometric data. Access to the credential is protected by a PIN or biometric verification. Credentials can be embedded in a physical card or provided via a mobile identity solution (mobile ID).

Usage encompasses authentication to e-government and other public services, signing documents electronically (including advanced or qualified electronic signatures), and, in some cases, encrypting communications. The trust framework is built on a public key infrastructure (PKI) and certificate hierarchy; the private key proves possession of the credential, while the certificate binds the key to the user’s identity.

Governance follows regional or national implementations, with eIDAS guidance in the EU. Privacy and security considerations include strong protective measures, data minimization, revocation mechanisms, and clear consent for cross-border use. Limitations include uneven cross-border adoption and varying service support.