Digital identities for everyone – but not for everything
With the introduction of the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet), Europe is taking a big step towards a sovereign and digital society. But as universal as the idea of a European wallet may seem, it is important to differentiate between its areas of application – especially between private individuals and businesses. As a qualified trust service provider, we at Namirial know what is important for legally compliant digital identification and authentication in a business context. And why a clear separation of wallets is necessary.
A strong foundation – but not suitable for all requirements
Regulation (EU) 2024/1183 (eIDAS 2.0) forms the regulatory framework for the EUDI wallet. It defines the basic functions for the digital identification and authentication of natural persons. This basis is essential for the digital everyday life of citizens – when accessing government services, logging in securely to banks or providing digital proof of age.
However, companies have different requirements. The EUDI Wallet does not cover these – nor is that its aim.
Why companies need their own wallet
Specific business requirements
Companies do not act as individuals, but through legally authorized representatives. They need functions such as:
- Management and allocation of company certificates
- Mapping of representation relationships and roles within the organization
- Integration into internal workflows and ERP systems
These business realities cannot be reliably mapped using the mechanisms of a purely personal wallet.
Legal validity and responsibility in a corporate context
Complex liability issues arise in the corporate environment: Who signs on behalf of the company? Who is authorized to act? Separate regulations for the business wallet provide the necessary clarity here – both in terms of the legal validity of digital actions and responsibilities, as well as with regard to compliance requirements.
Cross-border interoperability
In the European single market, with over 30 million businesses, it is crucial that a business wallet is standardized and interoperable – not only within a single country, but across the EU. This requires technical specifications and interfaces that go beyond what the updated eIDAS Regulation (often referred to as eIDAS 2.0) provides for citizen identities.
Actively promoting economic transformation
A dedicated business wallet makes it possible to accelerate digital processes in companies – for example, in digital contract conclusion, invoicing or cross-border tenders. This makes it a key tool for Europe’s digital competitiveness.
The road to the business wallet: regulation coming in 2025
The European Commission has recognized that clear, independent regulation is needed for businesses. It has therefore announced its own proposal for a European business wallet regulation for the fourth quarter of 2025. This will create the conditions for the digital single market to fully develop in the business sector – legally effective, standardized and practical.
Conclusion: One wallet for all? No – one for every purpose!
While the EUDI wallet opens up new digital opportunities for citizens, the European economy needs its own tailor-made instrument. The business wallet must be geared to the real requirements of businesses – technically, organizationally and regulatorily.
A clear separation is not an obstacle – it is a prerequisite for digital sovereignty, trust and legally compliant implementation in practice.
