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mObywatel Set for Continued Growth Amidst European Digital Identity Push
Recent discussions about the upcoming European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet) led to speculation regarding the future of mObywatel, Poland’s widely used government mobile application. However, the Ministry of Digitalization has moved to reassure users, confirming that mObywatel will not be phased out. Instead, both platforms will coexist and be developed in parallel.
mObywatel Remains a Cornerstone of Digital Public Services
The Ministry of Digitalization has unequivocally stated that the mObywatel application, currently utilized by over 11 million users, will not be shut down. Deputy Minister of Digitalization, Dariusz Standerski, affirmed this commitment on the official website of the Republic of Poland, stating:
“We are consistently developing mObywatel as a gateway to public services. Concurrently, we are working on the European Digital Identity Wallet, in line with the eIDAS 2.0 regulation.”
Dariusz Standerski, Deputy Minister of Digitalization
The Ministry emphasizes that mObywatel will continue to serve as the central hub for accessing online public services. The application is set for ongoing enhancements, including the integration of new documents, additional functionalities, and expanded integration with various state administration services. Future plans include broadening the catalog of e-services and expanding the overall ecosystem of the platform.
Introducing the New European Digital Identity Wallet
In parallel with mObywatel’s continued development, the Ministry is actively preparing legislative changes to facilitate the introduction of a new application: the European Digital Identity Wallet. This new solution is designed to meet the rigorous interoperability and security standards mandated by the European Union.
The EUDI Wallet will empower citizens to:
- Identify themselves digitally across all EU member states.
- Access public and commercial services both within and outside their home country.
- Manage personal identification data securely and conveniently within a standardized EU framework.
This dual-platform approach ensures that Polish citizens will continue to benefit from the familiar and evolving mObywatel app for domestic services, while also gaining access to a powerful, EU-wide digital identity solution for broader European interactions.
What is mObywatel?
mObywatel is the official mobile application of the Polish government, providing citizens with digital versions of various official documents and access to a wide range of public services. It allows users to store and present their digital ID card, driving license, student ID, and more, making interactions with government agencies and other entities simpler and more efficient.
Understanding the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet) and eIDAS 2.0
The European Digital Identity Wallet is a flagship initiative by the European Union to create a secure, private, and convenient digital identity for all EU citizens. It will allow individuals to prove their identity, share official documents, and access services across borders securely. This initiative is underpinned by the eIDAS 2.0 regulation, an updated legal framework designed to enhance trust and security in electronic identification and trust services within the EU’s single market. eIDAS 2.0 aims to ensure a consistent and robust standard for digital identity across all member states, enabling seamless cross-border digital interactions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will mObywatel be replaced by the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet)?
No, the Ministry of Digitalization has confirmed that mObywatel will not be shut down. It will continue to be developed and enhanced in parallel with the new EUDI Wallet.
What is the purpose of the European Digital Identity Wallet?
The EUDI Wallet will allow EU citizens to prove their identity digitally across all EU member states, access public and commercial services both within and outside their home country, and manage their digital identity securely under EU standards.
How many people currently use mObywatel in Poland?
Currently, over 11 million users in Poland utilize the mObywatel application for various digital public services.
What is eIDAS 2.0?
eIDAS 2.0 is the updated European regulation on electronic identification and trust services. It provides the legal framework for the European Digital Identity Wallet, ensuring enhanced trust, security, and interoperability for digital identities across the EU.
Source: Ministry of Digitalization, Gemini AI
Opening photo: Generated by Gemini