The Council of the European Union announced, on 6 December 2022, the adoption of its general approach on the Proposal for a Regulation amending Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 as regards Establishing a Framework for a European Digital Identity (SEC(2021) 228 final) - (SWD(2021) 124 final) - (SWD(2021) 125 final). In particular, the Council explained that the Proposal for a European Digital Identity Framework aims to ensure universal access for people and businesses to secure trustworthy electronic identification and authentication by means of a personal digital wallet on a mobile phone.

Moreover, the Council outlined that the general approach proposes that the implementing period of 24 months be counted from the adoption of the implementing acts and clarifies that the issuance, use for authentication, and revocation of wallets should be free of charge to natural persons. However, the Council continued, when wallets are used for authentication, services relying on the use of the wallet may incur costs, e.g. the issuance of the electronic attestations of attributes to the wallet.

Separately, the Czech Deputy Prime Minister for Digitalisation and Minister of Regional Development, Ivan Bartoš, stated that, "Digital technologies can make our life so easy. I am convinced that a European digital identity wallet is indispensable for our citizens and businesses. We are looking at a massive advancement in how people use their identity and credentials in everyday contact with both public and private entities, and in how they use digital services. All while firmly keeping control over their data."

Moreover, the Council explained that the adoption of its general approach will allow it to enter into negotiations with the European Parliament, once the latter adopts its own position with a view to reaching a final agreement.

The final text of the general approach is not yet available.

You can read the press release here.