The European Union is moving forward with several major digital identity initiatives, showing progress across multiple member states and systems. Romania plans to launch its electronic ID card (CEI) program in March 2025, beginning in Cluj County, after the government approved three regulatory decisions on March 13. The initiative supports the EU’s broader strategy for standardized digital identity systems across member states.
The new Romanian electronic ID cards will meet European standards, featuring a bank card-like format with advanced security measures. The cards will function as both travel documents and provide access to electronic services, including digital signatures. The printed portion will display essential information such as the holder’s name, citizenship, birth date, gender, facial image, personal numerical code, and handwritten signature. The electronic component will store additional data, including parents’ names, residence information, fingerprint impressions, and digital certificates.
During the initial rollout period from March 2025 to June 2026, the electronic ID cards will be issued free of charge, with funding provided through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. The program will expand to include children under 14 starting June 2, allowing them to use the ID as both a travel and administrative document. A simplified version without electronic storage capabilities will become available from May 20. The initiative follows similar successful implementations in other EU member states, including Italy’s digital ID wallet pilot.
The EU is also implementing its NIS2 Directive, a comprehensive cybersecurity framework designed to establish uniform security standards across member states. The directive encompasses both “Essential” and “Important” entities, determined by factors including size, sector, and criticality. NIS2 mandates enhanced cybersecurity risk management practices and introduces specific reporting obligations across critical sectors including energy, transport, health, and digital infrastructure.
The directive implements a size-cap rule that brings medium-sized and large entities within regulated sectors under its scope. Organizations must adopt appropriate cybersecurity risk management measures and adhere to incident reporting requirements within specified timeframes. The framework establishes management accountability for non-compliance, with potential legal consequences including fines.
The EU has also adjusted its timeline for implementing new border control systems. The biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin phased implementation in October 2025, with complete deployment expected by April 2026. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will follow in April 2027, with a grace period extending to October 2027. These adjustments affect British travelers and other visa-exempt nationals, with mandatory requirements now scheduled for 2027. The revised timeline demonstrates the EU’s commitment to implementing robust digital identity management systems while ensuring proper technical integration and user adoption.
Sources: Romania Insider, Compliance Hub, ID Tech Wire
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