Ireland Considers Limited Digital ID Wallet Rollout

Published Date : 7/28/2025 

Ireland has successfully completed a pilot program for its national digital identity wallet, involving over 500 public servants. The government is now considering a limited launch before the end of the year, aligning with the EU's eIDAS 2.0 regulation. 

Ireland has successfully completed a pilot of its national digital identity wallet involving over 500 public servants who volunteered for the testing. The Irish government is now considering its official launch.

“Following positive feedback, the Government is examining the possibility of launching the wallet on a limited basis before the end of the year,” says a spokesperson of the Department of Public Expenditure, the agency overseeing the project.

The Government Digital Wallet is part of the EU’s plan to offer digital identity to all of its citizens and residents by 2026 under the eIDAS 2.0 regulation. The app will be able to store drivers’ licenses, birth certificates, and other credentials and will be connected with the Life Events portal, an online platform for accessing public services.

Ireland still has no guidance on whether the smartphone app will become “mandatory but not compulsory” for accessing services such as pension and healthcare, according to the Irish Independent. EU rules, however, state that the digital ID wallet is supposed to remain optional.

The Department of Public Expenditure is committed to ensuring that the digital ID wallet enhances the convenience and security of accessing public services for Irish citizens. The pilot program has provided valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges of implementing such a system. The government is now focusing on addressing any concerns and optimizing the user experience before a broader rollout.

The launch of the digital ID wallet is part of a broader trend towards digital transformation in government services across the EU. By aligning with the eIDAS 2.0 regulation, Ireland is taking a significant step towards modernizing its public services and improving the lives of its citizens.

As the government considers the limited launch, it is also engaging with stakeholders, including technology experts, privacy advocates, and citizens, to gather feedback and ensure that the digital ID wallet meets the highest standards of security and usability. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the purpose of the digital ID wallet in Ireland?

A: The purpose of the digital ID wallet in Ireland is to provide a secure and convenient way for citizens to store and access important documents such as drivers’ licenses, birth certificates, and other credentials, and to access public services through the Life Events portal.

Q: What is the eIDAS 2.0 regulation?

A: The eIDAS 2.0 regulation is part of the EU’s plan to offer digital identity to all of its citizens and residents by 2026. It aims to enhance the security and interoperability of digital identities across the EU.

Q: How many people participated in the pilot program for the digital ID wallet?

A: Over 500 public servants volunteered for the testing of the digital ID wallet pilot program in Ireland.

Q: Is the digital ID wallet mandatory for accessing public services in Ireland?

A: The status of the digital ID wallet as mandatory for accessing public services in Ireland is still unclear. However, EU rules state that the digital ID wallet is supposed to remain optional.

Q: What is the timeline for the official launch of the digital ID wallet in Ireland?

A: The Irish government is considering a limited launch of the digital ID wallet before the end of the year, following positive feedback from the pilot program. 

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