Poland updates ID card procedures and develops digital identity wallet

Poland is implementing significant changes to identity management through both domestic legislative updates and alignment with European Union digital standards.

Starting December 1, new regulations prepared by the Ministry of Interior and Administration will streamline the issuance of national ID cards. A key change allows citizens to collect their completed documents at any municipal office in the country, regardless of where the application was filed. Additionally, the new rules introduce a technical procedure to restore the validity of ID cards that were accidentally invalidated by officials within 30 days, avoiding the need for a full administrative process or a new application.

On a broader scale, Poland is developing a digital identity wallet as part of the mObywatel ecosystem to comply with the EU's eIDAS 2.0 regulation. All EU member states are required to provide a European Digital Identity Wallet by the end of 2026. This tool will allow users to store basic data, such as names and birth dates, alongside electronic credentials like driver's licenses and professional diplomas. The system is designed to facilitate online services, including opening bank accounts and signing electronic contracts, and is currently undergoing testing in a sandbox environment to ensure interoperability with public and private institutions.