Switzerland Says Yes To E-ID: Digital Identity Is On Its Way

Swiss voters narrowly approved the Federal Act on Electronic Identity Credentials and Other Electronic Proofs of Identity (E-ID Act) by a margin of 50.39% to 49.61% in yesterday's public vote.

The new E-ID will simplify online identification, enable faster access to government and private services, and support secure digital transactions. Unlike the rejected 2021 proposal, the E-ID will be issued and managed directly by the federal government (and not private suppliers).

The digital identity will be stored locally on the user's phone rather than in a central database. If a device is lost or replaced, the E-ID must be re-issued through the official application process.

Beginning at the earliest in the third quarter of 2026, individuals will be able to apply for an E-ID through the official Swiyu app on their iOS or Android devices (Swiyu is derived from "Switzerland" and "you"). The application process will require verification with an approved identity