TITLE: Ireland Launches Public Consultation and Testing Phase for Government Digital Wallet
BODY:
On April 3, 2026, Ireland's Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation (DPER) announced the launch of a public consultation and testing phase for the Government Digital Wallet. Minister Jack Chambers and Minister of State Frank Feighan led the announcement, which represents a key milestone in Ireland's Digital Public Service Plan 2030.
The Government Digital Wallet will enable Irish citizens to store important documents digitally on their mobile devices, including birth certificates, driving licences, European health insurance cards, and other official documents. The wallet aims to streamline access to public services and identity verification both online and in person, while reducing the need for citizens to repeat information across multiple government departments. The wallet will incorporate data protection safeguards, with users retaining full control over what information they store and share.
The development involves multiple government departments: DPER and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation are leading the initiative, whilst the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport (DCCS) is undertaking legislative work, and the Department of Social Protection (DSP) is providing support. The wallet will also facilitate secure age verification capabilities as outlined in Digital Ireland and the Online Safety Code, supporting child protection online.
Ireland must deliver the Digital Wallet by the end of 2026 to comply with the European Union's eIDAS 2 Regulation, which mandates all Member States make a digital wallet available by this deadline.
Members of the public can register to participate in the testing phase and provide feedback via gov.ie/DigitalWallet. The consultation page will remain live, with further updates provided through campaign channels and social media in the coming weeks and months.