Man with glasses using smartphone to verify digital ID
Digital Identity
8 min

8 Countries With the Most Innovative Digital ID Systems

What if you could access vital government services or verify your identity anywhere, with just a few clicks?

Digital ID systems aim to make this a reality, reducing delays, and replacing outdated paperwork.

By 2024, experts predict governments will have issued around 5 billion digital IDs worldwide.

Many countries already rely on digital ID systems to give citizens fast, safe, and fair access to a growing range of services, though implementation varies by region and context.

"When we talk about national digital ID systems, we’re really talking about giving people the keys to access critical services securely, no matter where they are."

Paul Holland, Founder, Beyond Encryption

As a writer and researcher who studies digital identity, I’ve seen how these systems can improve people's lives.

But I’ve also seen how they can face hurdles related to equity, trust, and infrastructure.

Let's look at some countries that have adopted digital ID systems successfully.

I’ll highlight their key features, and consider what it takes to make these systems work.

Brief Summary: What Is Digital ID?

A digital ID is a virtual record of who you are.

It helps you prove your identity online without unnecessary steps.

Still, data privacy and access remain concerns for some users.

This process makes it easier to use services, protect private information, and include more people who may not have had access before.

However, it requires addressing barriers like digital literacy.

Core elements of a digital ID often include:

  • Credentials: Usernames, passwords, and email addresses that link you to online services.
  • Biometric Data: Fingerprints, facial scans, or voice recognition that strengthen your digital ID’s security.
  • Digital Footprint: Browsing history, communications, purchases, or social media activity that help verify who you are.

Digital identity

Read our complete guide to digital identity.

1. Estonia 🇪🇪

Estonia has led the way in digital ID innovation.

Its secure, efficient system sets a global benchmark, though a smaller population may make adoption easier.

Their digital ID, called eID, has been active for 20 years.

It supports over 600 services for citizens and 2,400 for businesses.

With an Estonian digital ID, you can pay bills, vote, or get prescriptions online.

Blockchain and biometric checks help keep your information safe.

In 2014, Estonia launched the e-Residency programme, which allows anyone, anywhere, to become a virtual resident.

This has opened new opportunities for entrepreneurs and remote workers.

Still, some critics question its scalability and security for global users.

Today, 99% of Estonians have a digital ID.

They’ve signed more than one billion digital documents, saving about five days per year, thanks to high trust and strong digital literacy.

2. Singapore 🇸🇬

Singapore’s National Digital Identity (NDI) system provides secure, convenient online interactions.

Yet its top-down governance style may not translate everywhere.

Launched in 2003 and built on Singpass, it connects over 700 government agencies and private businesses.

Singapore’s Singpass app is used by 97% of the population for accessing over 700 services

This single network cuts red tape and speeds up everyday tasks, but it also centralises user data, which raises privacy concerns.

With a Singaporean digital ID, you can sign documents, get important alerts, and handle financial planning online.

MyInfo helps agencies securely share user data, reducing repeated form-filling.

But it requires solid data-sharing agreements to protect users.

Options like facial recognition, digital ID cards, and QR codes confirm user identities quickly.

Yet some people without smartphones or internet access risk exclusion.

About 97% of Singaporeans use Singpass actively, reflecting strong public trust and adoption supported by extensive digital infrastructure.

3. India 🇮🇳

Aadhaar is India’s big leap in digital IDs.

“Aadhaar” means “foundation,” showing its aim to be a single, trusted base for identity.

Still, privacy and surveillance worries continue.

The government gives each citizen a 12-digit number that links their identity to secure online records.

Aadhaar mixes biometric data like fingerprints, iris scans, and facial photos to boost security.

However, its rollout has faced legal and operational questions.

Though not mandatory, Aadhaar reduces fraud and streamlines benefits, banking, and mobile services.

With 1.3 billion Aadhaar cards in use, India runs the world’s most-used digital ID system.

But challenges remain in making sure access is equitable and avoiding exclusion errors.

4. Sweden 🇸🇪

Sweden’s BankID works like a digital passport or driving licence, confirming identities online with speed and accuracy.

People use it to open bank accounts, sign contracts, file taxes, or book COVID-19 vaccines.

Seven Scandinavian banks joined forces to build BankID, making sure it meets high standards of trust and usability.

Swedens BankID system is used by 99.2% of citizens for various online transactions

Sweden plans to launch a QR code digital ID card for smartphones.

This should make secure identification even easier, but it raises questions about support for non-digital users.

Right now, BankID has been used 6.7 billion times by over eight million Swedes.

This shows high public trust and success.

5. Belgium 🇧🇪

Belgium started its digital ID plan in 2003 with the Belgian Personal Identity Card Project (BelPIC).

By 2020, over 28 million national ID cards were active.

Since 2021, distribution has grown by more than two million cards per year as electronic ID services expand.

Belgium’s system includes national ID cards, Kids-ID for under 12s, and the electronic foreigner’s card.

Each card links into a central digital ID framework, making essential services more accessible.

Still, there are concerns about combining these systems for different user groups.

Belgium also offers itsme, a mobile login that lets users access online services through a secure, single sign-in.

itsme grows by 350,000 users a year and now has 6.7 million users.

Many use it for banking and government services, although uptake varies by demographic.

6. Denmark 🇩🇰

Denmark first released NemID, one key for many online services.

In late 2021, it moved to a digital-first system, MitID, which no longer needs a physical card.

With MitID, Danes can manage banking, taxes, and other tasks on their phones.

But older and less tech-savvy groups may need extra help.

Today, more than 90% of the population uses the national eID.

Denmark’s strong digital infrastructure and public confidence support this, though inclusivity remains a concern.

7. Netherlands 🇳🇱

The Netherlands helps citizens and businesses through two main digital ID systems: DigiD and eHerkenning.

DigiD lets people log in to government services securely, like filing taxes or applying for benefits.

eHerkenning helps organisations verify identities online, making sure customers and partners are who they claim to be.

DigiD serves 15 million people, while eHerkenning connects with 500 service providers.

It handles 13.3 million logins each year.

This shows that robust digital ID solutions can support both public and private sectors, though balancing interests can be tricky.

8. Nigeria 🇳🇬

Nigeria began building its digital ID system in 2014.

The main feature is the National Identification Number (NIN), required for many official processes.

The Bank Verification Number (BVN) adds another level for banking customers.

About 100 million Nigerians have a NIN, and 58 million have a BVN.

Though the system deals with funding and operational challenges, leaders keep working to improve access and trust.

They aim to bring more people into the digital economy, though scaling up remains hard.

Challenges of Digital ID

Many countries see the benefits of digital IDs, but they must tackle common hurdles to help these systems thrive.

Key challenges include:

Infrastructure

Governments need robust networks that can handle high demand and protect data.

They must also make sure digital IDs work with existing tools, so users can switch to digital solutions. Legacy systems can complicate this.

"Building a secure network for digital IDs requires careful planning.

It’s not just about technology—it’s about creating a seamless user experience."

Mike Wakefield, CTO, Beyond Encryption

Cybersecurity

Digital IDs hold sensitive data, making them appealing targets for attackers.

Countries must protect these systems with strong security measures, timely updates, and clear response plans for possible breaches.

But hackers evolve quickly, so constant vigilance is needed.

Public Trust

People may fear data misuse or surveillance.

Clear policies, transparent communication, and visible benefits—such as faster service and stronger security—help build trust.

Still, cultural views on privacy vary worldwide.

Digital Literacy

To use digital IDs confidently, people need basic tech skills.

Providing training, helpful guides, and easy interfaces can make sure more people benefit.

Yet universal access is still a big challenge.

Data Privacy Laws

Following global data privacy rules protects people’s rights and makes digital IDs more trustworthy.

Strong laws reassure users that their data is treated with care.

But enforcement depends on each country’s legal system.

"Without trust in security and privacy, digital ID adoption will stall.

We must show users that their data is safe and under their control."

Emily Plummer, Marketing Director, Beyond Encryption

Just email it (securely)! CTA

 

FAQs

Why Doesn’t Britain Have ID Cards?

Britain ended its ID card programme in 2011 over concerns about privacy, cost, and effectiveness.

It relies on passports and driving licences instead, reflecting a complex cultural debate on identity systems.

Does the UK Have a Digital ID?

The UK doesn’t have a national digital ID.

It uses GOV.UK Verify for some government services.

A wider system is in progress, though public support is still uncertain.

Which Is the Most Digitalised Country in the World?

Estonia is often seen as the global leader.

It offers e-Government services like online voting and company creation, backed by secure blockchain and biometric ID.

However, its model may not work everywhere.

What Is the Future of Digital Identity?

The future may include decentralised systems, blockchain, and biometric checks.

These give users more control over their data and push for public-private teamwork, but they also need strong oversight.

How Secure Is Digital ID?

Digital IDs can be very secure with encryption, biometrics, and regular updates.

Still, staying ahead of cyber attacks is vital, especially in setups with centralised databases.

When Did Digital ID Start?

Digital ID took root in the early 2000s with pioneers like Estonia and Singapore.

It has grown to include better security and more integrated services.

 

References

Government Digital ID To Reach 5 Billion By 2024, DigWatch, 2019

Estonian eID, E-Estonia, 2024

Singpass and NDI, Singpass, 2024

Number of Aadhaar Cards Generated in India, Statista, 2024

BankID Statistics, BankID, 2024

Belgian Personal Identity Card Project (BelPIC), Thales Group, 2024

itsme Mobile ID Scheme, itsme, 2024

MitID, 2024

DigiD, 2024

Service Providers, eHerkenning, 2024

National Identification Number (NIN), NIMC, 2024

Bank Verification Number (BVN), NIBSS, 2024

Reviewed by

Sam Kendall, 31.12.24

Sabrina McClune, 06.06.24

 

Originally posted on 03 11 23
Last updated on January 5, 2025

Posted by: Sabrina McClune

Sabrina McClune is a Women in Tech Excellence 2022 finalist who writes extensively on cybersecurity, digital transformation, data protection, and digital identity. With a postgraduate degree in Digital Marketing (Distinction) and a First-Class Honours degree in English, she combines a strong academic foundation with professional expertise. At Beyond Encryption, Sabrina develops research-led content that supports financial and technology sectors navigating the complexities of the digital age.

Return to listing