### (110) when developing the network development plan , it is important that infrastructure operators take the energy efficiency first principle16 into account , in particular , the expected consumption used for the joint scenario development. ### (110) when developing the network development plan , it is important that infrastructure operators take the energy efficiency first principle16 into account , in particular , the expected consumption used for the joint scenario development , the prioritisation of demand-side solutions whenever they are more cost-effective than investments in infrastructure , and the direct electrification of end-use sectors.


### (143) in order to provide the minimum degree of harmonisation required to achieve the aim of this directive , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 tfeu should be delegated to the commission in respect of non-essential elements of certain specific areas which are fundamental for achieving the objectives of this directive. it is of particular importance that the commission carries out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law-making20 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of the delegated acts. ### (143) in order to provide the minimum degree of harmonisation required to achieve the aim of this directive , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 tfeu should be delegated to the commission in respect of non-essential elements of certain specific areas which are fundamental for achieving the objectives of this directive. it is of particular importance that the commission carries out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law-making. in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of the delegated acts. the commission should ensure that all documents and other information submitted to the commission in connection with its adoption of the delegated act are publicly available.


### 2. this directive establishes rules for the transport , supply and storage of natural gas and the transition of the natural gas system to a system based on renewable and low-carbon gases. ### 2. this directive establishes rules for the transport , supply and storage of natural gas and the transition of the natural gas system to an integrated system based on renewable and low-carbon gases.


### (2) ‘renewable gas’ means biogas as defined in article 2 , point (28) of directive 2018/2001 , including biomethane , and renewable gaseous fuels part of fuels of non-biological origins (‘rfnbos’) as defined in article 2 , point (36) of that directive’; ### (2) ‘renewable gas’ means biogas produced from waste and residue feedstock as listed in annex ix - part a of directive 2018/2001 , including biomethane , and renewable gaseous fuels part of fuels of non-biological origins (‘rfnbos’) as defined in article 2 , point (36) of that directive , which meets a life-cycle greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70% compared to the fossil fuel comparator of 94g co2eq/mj set out in directive (eu) 2018/2001 , annex v.c.19 and shall comply with requirements , including additionality requirements as addressed in the commission delegated regulation supplementing directive (eu) 2018/2001 of the european parliament and of the council by establishing a union methodology setting out detailed rules for the production of renewable liquid and gaseous transport fuels of non-biological origin. biogas produced from food and feed-based crops and intermediate crops , as defined in article 2 , point (40) of directive 2018/2001 , and round wood including veneer , pulp logs , and stemwood shall not be considered renewable gas.


### (4) ‘natural gas system’ means a system of infrastructures , including pipelines , lng terminals and storage facilities , which transports gases , that primarily consist of methane and include biogas and gas from biomass , in particular biomethane , or other types of gas that can technically and safely be injected into , and transported through the natural gas pipeline system. ### (4) ‘natural gas system’ means a system of infrastructures , including pipelines , lng terminals , blending , storage and treatment facilities , which transports gases , that primarily consist of methane and include biogas and gas from biomass , in particular biomethane , or other types of gas that can technically and safely be injected into , and transported through the natural gas pipeline system.


### (10) ‘low-carbon hydrogen’ means hydrogen the energy content of which is derived from non-renewable sources , which meets a greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70%; ### (10) ‘low-carbon hydrogen’ means hydrogen the energy content of which is derived from non-renewable fossil fuels sources , which meets a life-cycle greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70% compared to the fossil fuel comparator of 94g co2eq/mj set out in directive (eu) 2018/2001.


### (10) ‘low-carbon hydrogen’ means hydrogen the energy content of which is derived from non-renewable sources , which meets a greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70%; ### (10) ‘low-carbon hydrogen’ means hydrogen the energy content of which is derived from non-renewable sources , which meets a greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70% to a fossil fuel comparator of 94g co2e/mj; ;


### (11) ‘low-carbon gas’ means the part of gaseous fuels in recycled carbon fuels as defined in article 2 , point (35) of directive (eu) 2018/2001 , low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous fuels the energy content of which is derived from low-carbon hydrogen , which meet the greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70%. ### (11) ‘low-carbon gas’ means the part of gaseous fuels in recycled carbon fuels as defined in article 2 , point (35) of directive (eu) 2018/2001 , low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous fuels the energy content of which is derived from low-carbon hydrogen , which meet the life-cycle greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70% compared to the fossil fuel comparator of 94g co2eq/mj set out in directive (eu) 2018/2001.


### (12) ‘low-carbon fuels’ means recycled carbon fuels as defined in article 2 of directive (eu) 2018/2001 , low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous and liquid fuels the energy content of which is derived from low-carbon hydrogen , which meet the greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70%. ### (12) ‘low-carbon fuels’ means recycled carbon fuels as defined in article 2 of directive (eu) 2018/2001 , low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic gaseous and liquid fuels the energy content of which is derived from low-carbon hydrogen , which meet the greenhouse gas emission reduction threshold of 70% compared to the fossil fuel comparator of 94g co2eq/mj set out in directive (eu) 2018/2001.


### 3. this article shall also apply to citizen energy communities that manage distribution networks. ### deleted


### 30 direct lines for natural gas ### 30 direct lines for gases


### any such customer within their territory to be supplied through a direct line by natural gas undertakings. ### any such customer within their territory to be supplied through a direct line by undertakings.


### 1. at least every two years , all transmission system operators shall submit to the relevant regulatory authority a ten-year network development plan based on existing and forecast supply and demand after having consulted all relevant stakeholders. there shall be at least one single network development plan per member state. infrastructure operators , including lng terminal operators , storage operators , distribution system operators as well as hydrogen , district heating infrastructure and electricity operators shall be required to provide and exchange all relevant information to the transmission system operators required for developing the single plan. that network development plan shall contain efficient measures in order to guarantee the adequacy of the natural gas system and the security of supply , in particular the compliance with the infrastructure standards under regulation (eu) 2017/1938. the ten-year network development plan shall be published and accessible on a website . ### 1. at least every two years , all transmission system operators shall submit to the relevant regulatory authority a ten-year network development plan based on existing and forecast supply and demand after having consulted the public and all relevant stakeholders. there shall be at least one single network development plan per member state. infrastructure operators , including lng terminal operators , storage operators , distribution system operators as well as hydrogen , district heating infrastructure and electricity operators shall be required to provide and exchange all relevant information to the transmission system operators required for developing the single plan. that network development plan shall contain efficient measures in order to guarantee the adequacy of the natural gas system and the security of supply , in particular the compliance with the infrastructure standards under regulation (eu) 2017/1938. the ten-year network development plan , and the information which the transmission system operator considered in developing the ten-year network development plan , shall be published and accessible on a website.


### contain all the investments already decided and identify new investments which have to be executed in the next three years; ### contain all the investments and demand-side solutions not requiring new infrastructure investments already decided , and identify new investments and demand-side solutions not requiring new infrastructure investments which have to be executed in the next three years;


### provide for a time frame for all investment and decommissioning projects; ### provide for a time frame for all investment and decommissioning projects and all demand-side solutions not requiring new infrastructure investments;


### be based on a joint scenario framework developed between the relevant infrastructure operators , including relevant distribution system operators , of at least gas and electricity; ### be based on a joint scenario framework incorporating reasonable assumptions for the evolution of production , consumption and trade , and developed with input from all relevant stakeholders and between the relevant infrastructure operators , including relevant distribution system operators , of at least gas , hydrogen and electricity;


### be in line with the integrated national energy and climate plan and its updates , and with the integrated national energy climate reports submitted in accordance with regulation (eu) 2018/1999 and support the climate-neutrality objective set out in article 2(1) , of regulation (eu) 2021/1119. ### contribute to achieving the integrated national energy and climate plan and its updates , and the integrated national energy climate reports and long-term strategies submitted in accordance with regulation (eu)2018/1999 , and support the ghg emissions reductions and climate-neutrality objectives set out in articles 2(1)and 4(1) , of regulation (eu) 2021/1119


### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operator shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , for instance the use of demand response , as well as expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. the transmission system operator shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the optimal location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets . ### 3. when elaborating the ten-year network development plan , the transmission system operator shall fully take into account the potential for alternatives to system expansion , for instance the use of demand response , as well as expected consumption following the application of the energy efficiency first principle , trade with other countries and the union-wide network development plan. consistent with the energy efficiency first principle and energy system integration , the transmission system operator shall prioritise alternatives to system expansion and new infrastructure investment if such alternatives will more efficiently achieve the objectives to be met. the transmission system operator shall assess how to address , where possible , a need across electricity and gases systems including information on the optimal location and size of energy storage and power to gas assets. all infrastructure investments , decommissioning projects and demand-side solutions not requiring new infrastructure investments which are identified in the ten-year network development plan shall be supported by a cost-benefit analysis consistent with the methodologies set forth in article 11 of regulation (eu) 2022/869.


### 4. the regulatory authority shall consult all actual or potential system users on the ten-year network development plan in an open and transparent manner. persons or undertakings claiming to be potential system users may be required to substantiate such claims. the regulatory authority shall publish the result of the consultation process , in particular possible needs for investments. ### 4. the regulatory authority shall consult all actual or potential system users , all relevant stakeholders , on the ten-year network development plan in an open and transparent manner. persons or undertakings claiming to be potential system users may be required to substantiate such claims. the regulatory authority shall publish the result of the consultation process , including possible needs for investments , decommissioning of assets and demand-side solutions not requiring new infrastructure investments


### 5. the regulatory authority shall examine whether the ten-year network development plan covers all investment needs identified during the consultation process , and whether it is consistent with the most recent union wide simulation of disruption scenarios carried out by the entso for gas under article 7 of regulation (eu) 2017/1938 , with the regional and national risk assessments and the non-binding union -wide ten-year network development plan ( union -wide network development plan) referred to in article 30(1) , point (b) , of regulation (eu) 2019/943 . if any doubt arises as to the consistency with the union -wide network development plan , the regulatory authority shall consult acer . the regulatory authority may require the transmission system operator to amend its ten-year network development plan. ### 5. the regulatory authority shall examine and publish a decision as to whether the ten-year network development plan covers all investment needs identified during the consultation process , and whether it is consistent with the most recent union wide simulation of disruption scenarios carried out by the entso for gas under article 7 of regulation (eu) 2017/1938 , with the regional and national risk assessments and the non-binding union-wide ten-year network development plan (union-wide network development plan) referred to in article 30(1) , point (b) , of regulation (eu) 2019/943. if any doubt arises as to the consistency with the union-wide network development plan , the regulatory authority shall consult acer. the regulatory authority may shall require the transmission system operator to amend its ten-year network development plan to resolve any identified inconsistencies with the considerations set forth in this paragraph. the competent national authorities shall examine and publish a report regarding the consistency of the ten-year network development plan with the national energy and climate plan and its updates , and with the integrated national energy climate reports and long-term strategies submitted in accordance with regulation (eu) 2018/1999 , the union's climate and energy targets and the phase-out of fossil gas by 2035 , including an intermediate reduction in fossil gas final energy demand of 57% in buildings and industry and 69% in electricity generation by 2030 , compared to 2015. the european scientific advisory board on climate change may review and give recommendations to amend the report. the transmission system operator shall amend its ten-year network development plan to resolve inconsistencies identified in the report , including as approved or amended


### 1. hydrogen network operators shall submit to the regulatory authority , at regular intervals as determined by that authority , an overview of the hydrogen network infrastructure they aim to develop. that overview shall in particular: ### 1. hydrogen network operators shall submit to the regulatory authority and make publicly available , at regular intervals as determined by that authority , an overview of the hydrogen network infrastructure they aim to develop. that overview shall in particular:


### be in line with the integrated national energy and climate plan and its updates , and with the integrated national energy and climate reports submitted in accordance with regulation (eu) 2018/1999 and support the climate-neutrality objective set out in article 2(1) of regulation (eu) 2021/1119. ### promote energy system integration and the energy efficiency first principle , be in line with the integrated national energy and climate plan and its updates , and with the integrated national energy and climate reports and long-term strategies submitted in accordance with regulation (eu) 2018/1999 and support the emissions reduction and climate-neutrality objectives set out in articles 2(1) and 4(1) of regulation (eu) 2021/1119; and


### 6. member states may decide to apply the requirements pursuant to article 51 to hydrogen network operators. ### 6. member states may decide to apply the requirements pursuant to article 51 to hydrogen network operators. as from 1 january 2031 an integrated network development plan for gas and hydrogen pursuant to the process set out in article 51 shall be mandatory for hydrogen network operators.


### 3. where on [entry into force] the hydrogen network belonged to a vertically integrated undertaking , a member state may decide not to apply paragraph 1. in such case , the member state concerned shall designate an independent hydrogen network operator unbundled in accordance with the rules on independent system operators for natural gas set out article 55. hydrogen network operators and transmission system operators for gas unbundled in accordance with article 54(1) can act as independent hydrogen network operator , subject to the requirements pursuant to article 63. ### 3. a member state may decide not to apply paragraph 1. in such case , the member state concerned shall designate an independent hydrogen network operator unbundled in accordance with the rules on independent system operators for natural gas set out article 55. hydrogen network operators and transmission system operators for gas unbundled in accordance with article 54(1) can act as independent hydrogen network operator.


### 4. until 31 december 2030 , member state may designate an integrated hydrogen network operator unbundled in accordance with the rules on independent transmission operators for natural gas set out in section 3 of chapter ix. such designation shall expire by 31 december 2030 at the latest. ### 4. member state may designate an integrated hydrogen network operator unbundled in accordance with the rules on independent transmission operators for natural gas set out in section 3 of chapter ix.


### article 63 ### deleted


### ensuring compliance of transmission system operators and distribution system operators , and where relevant , system owners , hydrogen network operators as well as of any natural gas and hydrogen undertakings and other market participants , including citizen energy communities , with their obligations under this directive , [the recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021) xxx] ,the network codes and guidelines adopted pursuant article 52 and 53 of gas regulation , regulation (eu) 2017/1938 and other relevant union legislation , including as regards cross-border issues , as well as acer’s decisions ; ### ensuring compliance of transmission system operators and distribution system operators , and where relevant , system owners , hydrogen network operators as well as of any natural gas and hydrogen undertakings and other market participants , including citizen energy communities , with their obligations under this directive , [the recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021) xxx] , the network codes and guidelines adopted pursuant to article 52 and 53 of gas regulation , regulation (eu) 2018/1938 and other relevant union legislation , including as regards cross-border issues , as well as acer’s decisions , and ensuring that the actions and operations of the foregoing entities promote the energy efficiency first principle and energy system integration , contribute to the prudent and rational utilisation of natural resources , contribute to the achievement of the union’s climate and energy targets and enabling the phase-out of fossil gas by 2035 , including an intermediate reduction in fossil gas final energy demand of 57% in buildings and industry and 69% in electricity generation by 2030 ,compared to 2015.


### (ii) monitoring the removal of unjustified obstacles to and restrictions on the development of consumption of self-generated renewable natural gas and citizen energy communities. ### (ii) monitoring the removal of unjustified obstacles to and restrictions on the development of consumption of self-generated renewable natural gas and renewable energy communities and citizen energy communities , and prevent misuse of energy communities by market participants.


### 4. before adopting a delegated act , the commission shall consult experts designated by each member state in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law-making. ### 4. before adopting a delegated act , the commission shall consult all relevant stakeholders , the public and experts designated by each member state in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law-making and in accordance with paragraph 8 of this article. the european scientific advisory board on climate change commission may give an opinion to the commission as to whether the delegated act contributes to achieving the union’s energy and climate targets.


### (4) a more harmonised approach to digital identification should reduce the risks and costs of the current fragmentation due to the use of divergent national solutions and will strengthen the single market by allowing citizens , other residents as defined by national law and businesses to identify online in a convenient and uniform way across the union. everyone should be able to securely access public and private services relying on an improved ecosystem for trust services and on verified proofs of identity and attestations of attributes , such as a university degree legally recognised and accepted everywhere in the union. the framework for a european digital identity aims to achieve a shift from the reliance on national digital identity solutions only , to the provision of electronic attestations of attributes valid at european level. providers of electronic attestations of attributes should benefit from a clear and uniform set of rules and public administrations should be able to rely on electronic documents in a given format. ### (4) a more harmonised approach to digital identification should reduce the risks and costs of the current fragmentation due to the use of divergent national solutions and will strengthen the single market by allowing citizens , other residents as defined by national law and businesses to identify online in a convenient and uniform way across the union. everyone should be able to securely access public and private services relying on an improved ecosystem for trust services and on verified proofs of identity and attestations of attributes , such as a university degree legally recognised and accepted everywhere in the union , whilst creating an uniform set of rules for providers of electronic attestations that ensures a level playing field. the framework for a european digital identity aims to achieve a shift from the reliance on national digital identity solutions only , to the provision of electronic attestations of attributes valid at european level. providers of electronic attestations of attributes should benefit from a clear and uniform set of rules and public administrations should be able to rely on electronic documents in a given format.


### (4) a more harmonised approach to digital identification should reduce the risks and costs of the current fragmentation due to the use of divergent national solutions and will strengthen the single market by allowing citizens , other residents as defined by national law and businesses to identify online in a convenient and uniform way across the union. everyone should be able to securely access public and private services relying on an improved ecosystem for trust services and on verified proofs of identity and attestations of attributes , such as a university degree legally recognised and accepted everywhere in the union. the framework for a european digital identity aims to achieve a shift from the reliance on national digital identity solutions only , to the provision of electronic attestations of attributes valid at european level. providers of electronic attestations of attributes should benefit from a clear and uniform set of rules and public administrations should be able to rely on electronic documents in a given format. ### (4) a more harmonised approach to digital identification should reduce the risks and costs of the current fragmentation due to the use of divergent national solutions and will strengthen the single market by allowing citizens , other residents as defined by national law and businesses to identify and authenticate online and offline in a secure , trustworthy , convenient , user friendly and uniform way across the union. everyone should be able to securely access public and private services relying on an improved ecosystem for trust services and on verified proofs of identity and attestations of attributes , such as an academic qualification legally recognised and accepted everywhere in the union. the framework for a european digital identity aims to achieve a shift from the reliance on national digital identity solutions only , to the provision of electronic attestations of attributes valid at european level. providers of electronic attestations of attributes should benefit from a clear and uniform set of rules and public administrations should be able to rely on electronic documents in a given format.


### (7) it is necessary to set out the harmonised conditions for the establishment of a framework for european digital identity wallets to be issued by member states , which should empower all union citizens and other residents as defined by national law to share securely data related to their identity in a user friendly and convenient way under the sole control of the user. technologies used to achieve those objectives should be developed aiming towards the highest level of security , user convenience and wide usability. member states should ensure equal access to digital identification to all their nationals and residents. ### (7) it is necessary to set out the harmonised conditions for the establishment of a framework for european digital identity wallets to be issued by member states , which should empower all union citizens and other residents as defined by national law to securely request , obtain , store , combine , share and revoke access to data related to their identity in a user friendly and convenient way under the sole control of the user. technologies used to achieve those objectives should be developed aiming towards the highest level of security , privacy , user convenience , accessibility and wide usability. member states should ensure equal access to digital identification to all their nationals and residents.


### (8) in order to ensure compliance within union law or national law compliant with union law , service providers should communicate their intent to rely on the european digital identity wallets to member states. that will allow member states to protect users from fraud and prevent the unlawful use of identity data and electronic attestations of attributes as well as to ensure that the processing of sensitive data , like health data , can be verified by relying parties in accordance with union law or national law. ### (8) in order to ensure compliance within union law or national law compliant with union law , service providers should communicate their intent to rely on the european digital identity wallets to member states. that will allow member states to protect users from fraud and prevent the unlawful use of identity data and electronic attestations of attributes as well as to ensure that the processing of sensitive data , like health data , are verified by relying parties in accordance with union law or national law. relying parties should be mandated to request from the users the minimum data necessary for the provision of their services.


### (9) all european digital identity wallets should allow users to electronically identify and authenticate online and offline across borders for accessing a wide range of public and private services. without prejudice to member states’ prerogatives as regards the identification of their nationals and residents , wallets can also serve the institutional needs of public administrations , international organisations and the union’s institutions , bodies , offices and agencies. offline use would be important in many sectors , including in the health sector where services are often provided through face-to-face interaction and eprescriptions should be able to rely on qr-codes or similar technologies to verify authenticity. relying on the level of assurance “high” , the european digital identity wallets should benefit from the potential offered by tamper-proof solutions such as secure elements , to comply with the security requirements under this regulation. the european digital identity wallets should also allow users to create and use qualified electronic signatures and seals which are accepted across the eu. to achieve simplification and cost reduction benefits to persons and businesses across the eu , including by enabling powers of representation and e-mandates , member states should issue european digital identity wallets relying on common standards to ensure seamless interoperability and a high level of security. only member states’ competent authorities can provide a high degree of confidence in establishing the identity of a person and therefore provide assurance that the person claiming or asserting a particular identity is in fact the person he or she claims to be. it is therefore necessary that the european digital identity wallets rely on the legal identity of citizens , other residents or legal entities. trust in the european digital identity wallets would be enhanced by the fact that issuing parties are required to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security commensurate to the risks raised for the rights and freedoms of the natural persons , in line with regulation (eu) 2016/679. ### (9) all european digital identity wallets should allow users to electronically identify and authenticate online and offline across borders for accessing a wide range of public and private services. without prejudice to member states’ prerogatives as regards the identification of their nationals and residents , wallets can also serve the institutional needs of public administrations , international organisations and the union’s institutions , bodies , offices and agencies. offline use would be important in many sectors , including in the health sector where services are often provided through face-to-face interaction and eprescriptions should be able to rely on qr-codes or similar technologies to verify authenticity. relying on the level of assurance “high” , the european digital identity wallets should benefit from the potential offered by tamper-proof solutions such as secure elements and state of art encryption to comply with the security requirements under this regulation. the european digital identity wallets should also allow users to generate , duplicate , manage , validate and use qualified electronic signatures and seals which are accepted across the eu. member states should comply with the legal requirements of this regulation to enable wallets to operate as qualified electronic signatures and seals creation devices , upon the request of the user. to achieve simplification and cost reduction benefits to persons and businesses across the eu , including by enabling powers of representation and e-mandates , member states should issue european digital identity wallets relying on common standards to ensure seamless interoperability and a high level of security. only member states’ competent authorities can provide a high degree of confidence in establishing the identity of a person and therefore provide assurance that the person claiming or asserting a particular identity is in fact the person he or she claims to be. it is therefore necessary that the european digital identity wallets rely on the legal identity of citizens , other residents or legal entities. the reliance on the legal identity should not hinder the possibility of users of the european digital identity wallets to access private and public services through the use of pseudonyms , where there is no legal requirement for legal identity for authentication. trust in the european digital identity wallets would be enhanced by the fact that issuing and managing parties are required to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security commensurate to the risks raised for the rights and freedoms of the natural persons , in line with regulation (eu) 2016/679.


### (11) european digital identity wallets should ensure the highest level of security for the personal data used for authentication irrespective of whether such data is stored locally or on cloud-based solutions , taking into account the different levels of risk. using biometrics to authenticate is one of the identifications methods providing a high level of confidence , in particular when used in combination with other elements of authentication. since biometrics represents a unique characteristic of a person , the use of biometrics requires organisational and security measures , commensurate to the risk that such processing may entail to the rights and freedoms of natural persons and in accordance with regulation 2016/679. ### (11) european digital identity wallets should ensure the highest level of security for the personal data used for authentication irrespective of whether such data is stored locally or on cloud-based solutions , taking into account the different levels of risk. using biometrics to authenticate is one of the identifications methods providing a high level of confidence , in particular when used in combination with other elements of authentication. since biometrics represents a unique characteristic of a person , the use of biometrics requires organisational and security measures , commensurate to the risk that such processing may entail to the rights and freedoms of natural persons and in accordance with regulation 2016/679. storing information from the european digital identity wallet in the cloud should be an optional feature only active after the user has given explicit consent. where the european digital identity wallet is provided on the device of the user , its cryptographic material should be generated and stored in the secure elements of the device.


### (12) to ensure that the european digital identity framework is open to innovation , technological development and future-proof , member states should be encouraged to set-up jointly sandboxes to test innovative solutions in a controlled and secure environment in particular to improve the functionality , protection of personal data , security and interoperability of the solutions and to inform future updates of technical references and legal requirements. this environment should foster the inclusion of european small and medium enterprises , start-ups and individual innovators and researchers. ### (12) to ensure that the european digital identity framework is open to innovation , technological development and future-proof , member states should be encouraged to jointly set-up sandboxes to test innovative solutions , in a controlled and secure environment in particular to improve the functionality , protection of personal data , security and interoperability of the solutions and to inform future updates of technical references and legal requirements. this environment should foster the inclusion of european small and medium enterprises , start-ups , individual innovators and researchers , as well as relevant stakeholders of industry.


### (17) service providers use the identity data provided by the set of person identification data available from electronic identification schemes pursuant to regulation (eu) no 910/2014 in order to match users from another member state with the legal identity of that user. however , despite the use of the eidas data set , in many cases ensuring an accurate match requires additional information about the user and specific unique identification procedures at national level. to further support the usability of electronic identification means , this regulation should require member states to take specific measures to ensure a correct identity match in the process of electronic identification. for the same purpose , this regulation should also extend the mandatory minimum data set and require the use of a unique and persistent electronic identifier in conformity with union law in those cases where it is necessary to legally identify the user upon his/her request in a unique and persistent way. ### (17) when accessing cross-border public and private services , authentication and identification of a user of the wallet should be possible. the receiving member states should be able to unequivocally identify the user upon their request in those cases when identification of the user is required by law. in order to ensure a high-level of trust and security of personal data of natural persons , different technical solutions should be considered , including the use or combination of various cryptographic techniques , such as cryptographically verifiable identifiers. to further support the cross-border electronic interactions of legal persons , transparency and traceability in their activity , this regulation should extend the mandatory minimum set and require the use of a unique and persistent electronic identifier for legal persons in conformity with union law.


### (26) it should be possible to issue and handle trustworthy digital attributes and contribute to reducing administrative burden , empowering citizens and other residents to use them in their private and public transactions. citizens and other residents should be able , for instance , to demonstrate ownership of a valid driving license issued by an authority in one member state , which can be verified and relied upon by the relevant authorities in other member states , to rely on their social security credentials or on future digital travel documents in a cross border context. ### (26) it should be possible to issue and handle trustworthy digital attributes and contribute to reducing administrative burden , empowering citizens and other residents to use them in their private and public transactions. citizens and other residents should be able , for instance , to demonstrate ownership of a valid driving license issued by an authority in one member state , which can be verified and relied upon by the relevant authorities in other member states , to rely on their social security credentials or on future digital travel documents in a cross border context. furthermore , in order to ensure true interoperability and cross-border use of the european digital identity wallets , users , particularly mobile citizens , should be able to request , store and manage in the wallet issued by one member state the electronic attestation of attributes provided by an authority of another member state , with no additional technical , administrative or procedural requirements.


### (27) any entity that collects , creates and issues attested attributes such as diplomas , licences , certificates of birth should be able to become a provider of electronic attestation of attributes. relying parties should use the electronic attestations of attributes as equivalent to attestations in paper format. therefore , an electronic attestation of attributes should not be denied legal effect on the grounds that it is in an electronic form or that it does not meet the requirements of the qualified electronic attestation of attributes. to that effect , general requirements should be laid down to ensure that a qualified electronic attestation of attributes has the equivalent legal effect of lawfully issued attestations in paper form. however , those requirements should apply without prejudice to union or national law defining additional sector specific requirements as regards form with underlying legal effects and , in particular , the cross-border recognition of qualified electronic attestation of attributes , where appropriate. ### (27) any entity that collects , creates , issues and revokes attested attributes such as diplomas , licences , certificates of birth should be able to become a provider of electronic attestation of attributes. relying parties should use the electronic attestations of attributes as equivalent to attestations in paper format. therefore , an electronic attestation of attributes should not be denied legal effect on the grounds that it is in an electronic form or that it does not meet the requirements of the qualified electronic attestation of attributes. to that effect , general requirements should be laid down to ensure that a qualified electronic attestation of attributes has the equivalent legal effect of lawfully issued attestations in paper form. however , those requirements should apply without prejudice to union or national law defining additional sector specific requirements as regards form with underlying legal effects and , in particular , the cross-border recognition of qualified electronic attestation of attributes , where appropriate.


### (28) wide availability and usability of the european digital identity wallets require their acceptance by private service providers. private relying parties providing services in the areas of transport , energy , banking and financial services , social security , health , drinking water , postal services , digital infrastructure , education or telecommunications should accept the use of european digital identity wallets for the provision of services where strong user authentication for online identification is required by national or union law or by contractual obligation. where very large online platforms as defined in article 25.1. of regulation [reference dsa regulation] require users to authenticate to access online services , those platforms should be mandated to accept the use of european digital identity wallets upon voluntary request of the user. users should be under no obligation to use the wallet to access private services , but if they wish to do so , large online platforms should accept the european digital identity wallet for this purpose while respecting the principle of data minimisation. given the importance of very large online platforms , due to their reach , in particular as expressed in number of recipients of the service and economic transactions this is necessary to increase the protection of users from fraud and secure a high level of data protection. self-regulatory codes of conduct at union level (‘codes of conduct’) should be developed in order to contribute to wide availability and usability of electronic identification means including european digital identity wallets within the scope of this regulation. the codes of conduct should facilitate wide acceptance of electronic identification means including european digital identity wallets by those service providers which do not qualify as very large platforms and which rely on third party electronic identification services for user authentication. they should be developed within 12 months of the adoption of this regulation. the commission should assess the effectiveness of these provisions for the availability and usability for the user of the european digital identity wallets after 18 months of their deployment and revise the provisions to ensure their acceptance by means of delegated acts in the light of this assessment. ### (28) wide availability and usability of the european digital identity wallets require their acceptance by private service providers. private relying parties providing services in the areas of transport , energy , banking and financial services , social security , health , drinking water , postal services , digital infrastructure , education or telecommunications should accept the use of european digital identity wallets for the provision of services where strong user authentication for online identification is required by national or union law or by contractual obligation. where very large online platforms as defined in article 25.1. of regulation [reference dsa regulation] require users to authenticate to access online services , those platforms should be mandated to accept the use of european digital identity wallets upon voluntary request of the user. users should be under no obligation to use the wallet to access private services and should not be discriminated against for not using the wallet , but if they wish to do so , large online platforms should accept the european digital identity wallet for this purpose while respecting the principle of data minimisation and the right of the users to pseudonyms. given the importance of very large online platforms , due to their reach , in particular as expressed in number of recipients of the service and economic transactions this is necessary to increase the protection of users from fraud and secure a high level of data protection. self-regulatory codes of conduct at union level (‘codes of conduct’)should be developed in order to contribute to wide availability and usability of electronic identification means including european digital identity wallets within the scope of this regulation. the codes of conduct should facilitate wide acceptance of electronic identification means including european digital identity wallets by those service providers which do not qualify as very large platforms and which rely on third party electronic identification services for user authentication. they should be developed within 12 months of the adoption of this regulation. the commission should assess the effectiveness of these provisions for the availability and usability for the user of the european digital identity wallets after 18 months of their deployment and revise the provisions to ensure their acceptance by means of delegated acts in the light of this assessment.


### (32) website authentication services provide users with assurance that there is a genuine and legitimate entity standing behind the website. those services contribute to the building of trust and confidence in conducting business online , as users will have confidence in a website that has been authenticated. the use of website authentication services by websites is voluntary. however , in order for website authentication to become a means to increasing trust , providing a better experience for the user and furthering growth in the internal market , this regulation lays down minimal security and liability obligations for the providers of website authentication services and their services. to that end , web-browsers should ensure support and interoperability with qualified certificates for website authentication pursuant to regulation (eu) no 910/2014. they should recognise and display qualified certificates for website authentication to provide a high level of assurance , allowing website owners to assert their identity as owners of a website and users to identify the website owners with a high degree of certainty. to further promote their usage , public authorities in member states should consider incorporating qualified certificates for website authentication in their websites. ### (32) website authentication services provide users with assurance that there is a genuine and legitimate entity standing behind the website. those services contribute to the building of trust and confidence in conducting business online , as users will have confidence in a website that has been authenticated. the use of website authentication services by websites is voluntary. however , in order for website authentication to become a means to increasing trust , providing a better experience for the user and furthering growth in the internal market , this regulation lays down minimal security and liability obligations for the providers of website authentication services and their services. to that end , web-browsers should ensure support and interoperability with qualified certificates for website authentication pursuant to regulation (eu) no 910/2014. they should recognize and display qualified certificates for website authentication , in a consistent , user friendly manner , to provide a high level of assurance , allowing website owners to assert their identity as owners of a website and users to identify the website owners with a high degree of certainty. this automatic recognition should not undermine end-user privacy and security. to this end , web-browsers should be able to benefit from a dispute resolution mechanism at the european level , with the involvement of all affected parties , provided by the european union agency for cybersecurity , where they can report in a dully-justified and transparent manner the qualified certificates for website authentication and trust service providers that are non-compliant with the privacy , security and interoperability requirements. web-browsers can suspend the validity of the qualified certificate for website authentication until the issuance of the final decision by the enisa. to further promote the usage of qualified certificates for website authentication , public authorities in member states should consider incorporating them in their websites.


### (33) many member states have introduced national requirements for services providing secure and trustworthy digital archiving in order to allow for the long term preservation of electronic documents and associated trust services. to ensure legal certainty and trust , it is essential to provide a legal framework to facilitate the cross border recognition of qualified electronic archiving services. that framework could also open new market opportunities for union trust service providers. ### (33) many member states have introduced national requirements for services providing secure and trustworthy digital archiving in order to allow for the long term preservation of electronic documents and associated trust services. to ensure legal certainty and trust , it is essential to provide a legal framework to facilitate the cross border recognition of qualified electronic archiving services , including provisions on the legal effects of electronic archiving services. that framework could also open new market opportunities for union trust service providers.


### (36) in order to avoid fragmentation and barriers , due to diverging standards and technical restrictions , and to ensure a coordinated process to avoid endangering the implementation of the future european digital identity framework , a process for close and structured cooperation between the commission , member states and the private sector is needed. to achieve this objective , member states should cooperate within the framework set out in the commission recommendation xxx/xxxx [toolbox for a coordinated approach towards a european digital identity framework]26 to identify a toolbox for a european digital identity framework. the toolbox should include a comprehensive technical architecture and reference framework , a set of common standards and technical references and a set of guidelines and descriptions of best practices covering at least all aspects of the functionalities and interoperability of the european digital identity wallets including esignatures and of the qualified trust service for attestation of attributes as laid out in this regulation. in this context , member states should also reach agreement on common elements of a business model and fee structure of the european digital identity wallets , to facilitate take up , in particular by small and medium sized companies in a cross-border context. the content of the toolbox should evolve in parallel with and reflect the outcome of the discussion and process of adoption of the european digital identity framework. ### (36) in order to avoid fragmentation and barriers , due to diverging standards and technical restrictions , and to ensure a coordinated process to avoid endangering the implementation of the future european digital identity framework , a process for close and structured cooperation between the commission , member states and the private sector is needed. to achieve this objective , member states should cooperate within the framework set out in the commission recommendation xxx/xxxx [toolbox for a coordinated approach towards a european digital identity framework]26 to identify a toolbox for a european digital identity framework. the toolbox should include a comprehensive technical architecture and reference framework , a set of common standards and technical references , including recognised existing standards , and a set of guidelines and descriptions of best practices covering at least all aspects of the functionalities and interoperability of the european digital identity wallets including esignatures and of the qualified trust service providers for attestation of attributes as laid out in this regulation. in this context , member states should also reach agreement on common elements of a sustainable and efficient business model and fee structure of the european digital identity wallets , to facilitate take up , in particular by smes in a cross-border context. the content of the toolbox should be developed in close cooperation with key industry , relevant large , small and medium sized enterprises , research community and academics and reflect the outcome of the discussion and process of adoption of the european digital identity framework.


### establishes a legal framework for electronic signatures , electronic seals , electronic time stamps , electronic documents , electronic registered delivery services , certificate services for website authentication , electronic archiving and electronic attestation of attributes , the management of remote electronic signature and seal creation devices , and electronic ledgers; ### establishes a legal framework for electronic signatures , electronic seals , electronic time stamps , electronic documents , non-qualified electronic delivery service and qualified electronic registered delivery service , certificate services for website authentication , electronic archiving and electronic attestation of attributes , the management of remote electronic signature and seal creation devices , and electronic ledgers;


### lays down the conditions for the issuing of european digital identity wallets by member states.; ### lays down the conditions for the issuing and managing of european digital identity wallets by member states and for ensuring their interoperability and cross-border use in the union.;


### the creation , verification , and validation of electronic signatures , electronic seals or electronic time stamps , electronic registered delivery services , electronic attestation of attributes and certificates related to those services; ### the creation , verification , and validation of electronic signatures , electronic seals or electronic time stamps , non-qualified electronic delivery service and qualified electronic registered delivery service , electronic attestation of attributes and certificates related to those services;


### (42) ‘european digital identity wallet’ is a product and service that allows the user to store identity data , credentials and attributes linked to her/his identity , to provide them to relying parties on request and to use them for authentication , online and offline , for a service in accordance with article 6a; and to create qualified electronic signatures and seals; ### (42) ‘european digital identity wallet’ is a product and service that allows the user to store and manage identity data , credentials and attributes linked to her/his identity , to provide them to relying parties on request and to use them for authentication , online and offline , for a service in accordance with article 6a; and to generate , duplicate , manage , validate and use qualified electronic signatures and seals;


### (47) ‘electronic archiving’ means a service ensuring the receipt , storage , deletion and transmission of electronic data or documents in order to guarantee their integrity , the accuracy of their origin and legal features throughout the conservation period; ### (47) ‘electronic archiving’ means a service ensuring the receipt , control , storage , deletion , life-cycle management and transmission of electronic data or documents in order to guarantee their durability and legibility , their availability , their traceability and the identification of users , as well as to preserve the integrity and correctness of origin of their content throughout the conservation period;


### (48) ‘qualified electronic archiving service’ means a service that meets the requirements laid down in article 45g; ### (48) ‘qualified electronic archiving service’ means a service that meets the requirements laid down in article 45fa;


### pseudonyms in electronic transaction ### pseudonyms in electronic interactions


### without prejudice to the legal effect given to pseudonyms under national law , the use of pseudonyms in electronic transactions shall not be prohibited.; ### 1. without prejudice to the legal effect given to pseudonyms under national law , the use of pseudonyms in electronic transactions shall not be prohibited. identity data may be used only if required by applicable legal requirements and in compliance with regulation (eu) 2016/679. in that case , the authentication of a natural person shall make use of tokens or attributes that are not linked or linkable to the user.


### 2. european digital identity wallets shall be issued: ### 2. european digital identity wallets shall be issued and managed:


### securely request and obtain , store , select , combine and share , in a manner that is transparent to and traceable by the user , the necessary legal person identification data and electronic attestation of attributes to authenticate online and offline in order to use online public and private services; ### securely request and obtain , store , select , combine and share , in a manner that is transparent to and traceable by the user with their explicit consent , the necessary legal person identification data and electronic attestation of attributes to authenticate online and offline in order to use online public and private services;


### securely request and obtain , store , select , combine and share , in a manner that is transparent to and traceable by the user , the necessary legal person identification data and electronic attestation of attributes to authenticate online and offline in order to use online public and private services; ### securely request and obtain , store , select , combine , share and revoke in a manner that is transparent to and traceable by the user , the necessary legal person identification data and electronic attestation of attributes to authenticate online and offline in order to use online public and private services;


### sign by means of qualified electronic signatures. ### generate , duplicate , manage , validate and use qualified electronic signatures;


### ensure that trust service providers of qualified attestations of attributes cannot receive any information about the use of these attributes; ### ensure that trust service providers of qualified attestations of attributes can neither receive any information about the use of these attributes , nor track data across relying parties;


### ensure that the person identification data referred to in articles 12(4) , point (d) uniquely and persistently represent the natural or legal person is associated with it. ### ensure that the person identification data referred to in article 12(4) , point (da) , which uniquely and persistently represent the legal person is associated with it.


### 6. the european digital identity wallets shall be issued under a notified electronic identification scheme of level of assurance ‘high’. the use of the european digital identity wallets shall be free of charge to natural persons. ### 6. the european digital identity wallets shall be issued under a notified electronic identification scheme of level of assurance ‘high’. the use of the european digital identity wallets shall be free of charge to natural and legal persons.


### 7. the user shall be in full control of the european digital identity wallet. the issuer of the european digital identity wallet shall not collect information about the use of the wallet which are not necessary for the provision of the wallet services , nor shall it combine person identification data and any other personal data stored or relating to the use of the european digital identity wallet with personal data from any other services offered by this issuer or from third-party services which are not necessary for the provision of the wallet services , unless the user has expressly requested it. personal data relating to the provision of european digital identity wallets shall be kept physically and logically separate from any other data held. if the european digital identity wallet is provided by private parties in accordance to paragraph 1 (b) and (c) , the provisions of article 45f paragraph 4 shall apply mutatis mutandis. ### 7. the user shall be in full control of the european digital identity wallet. the issuer and manager of the european digital identity wallet shall not collect information about the use of the wallet which are not necessary for the provision of the wallet services. the combination of person identification data and any other personal data stored or relating to the use of the european digital identity wallet with personal data from any other services offered by this issuer or manager or from third-party services which are not necessary for the provision of the wallet services shall be technically impossible. personal data relating to the provision of european digital identity wallets shall be kept physically and logically separate from any other data held. if the european digital identity wallet is provided by private parties in accordance to paragraph 1 (b) and (c) , the provisions of article 45f paragraph 4 shall apply mutatis mutandis.


### 9. article 24(2) , points (b) , (e) , (g) , and (h) shall apply mutatis mutandis to member states issuing the european digital identity wallets. ### 9. article 24(2) , points (b) , (e) , (g) , and (h) shall apply mutatis mutandis to member states issuing and managing the european digital identity wallets.


### 1. where relying parties intend to rely upon european digital identity wallets issued in accordance with this regulation , they shall communicate it to the member state where the relying party is established to ensure compliance with requirements set out in union law or national law for the provision of specific services. when communicating their intention to rely on european digital identity wallets , they shall also inform about the intended use of the european digital identity wallet. ### 1. where relying parties intend to rely upon european digital identity wallets issued in accordance with this regulation , they shall communicate it to the member state where the relying party is established to ensure compliance with requirements set out in union law or national law for the provision of specific services. when communicating their intention to rely on european digital identity wallets , they shall also inform about the intended use of the european digital identity wallet and prove that only the minimum data necessary for the provision of their services is requested from the users.


### 2. member states shall implement a common mechanism for the authentication of relying parties ### 2. member states shall implement a common mechanism for the authentication and revocation of authorisation of relying parties.


### 3. relying parties shall be responsible for carrying out the procedure for authenticating person identification data and electronic attestation of attributes originating from european digital identity wallets. ### 3. relying parties shall be responsible for carrying out the procedure for authenticating and validating person identification data and electronic attestation of attributes originating from european digital identity wallets. relying parties are mandated to accept pseudonyms , unless legal identity data for authentication for the service provided by the relying party is required by national and union law.


### 4. within 6 months of the entering into force of this regulation , the commission shall establish technical and operational specifications for the requirements referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 by means of an implementing act on the implementation of the european digital identity wallets as referred to in article 6a(10). ### 4. within 6 months of the entering into force of this regulation , the commission shall establish technical and operational specifications for the requirements referred to in this article by means of an implementing act on the implementation of the european digital identity wallets as referred to in article 6a(10).


### 1. european digital identity wallets that have been certified or for which a statement of conformity has been issued under a cybersecurity scheme pursuant to regulation (eu) 2019/881 and the references of which have been published in the official journal of the european union shall be presumed to be compliant with the cybersecurity relevant requirements set out in article 6a paragraphs 3 , 4 and 5 in so far as the cybersecurity certificate or statement of conformity or parts thereof cover those requirements. ### 1. european digital identity wallets that have been certified or for which a statement of conformity has been issued under a cybersecurity scheme pursuant to regulation (eu) 2019/881 and the references of which have been published in the official journal of the european union shall be presumed to be compliant with the cybersecurity relevant requirements set out in article 6a paragraphs 3 , 4 and 5 in so far as the cybersecurity certificate or statement of conformity or parts thereof cover those requirements. when relevant european cybersecurity certification schemes are available , the european digital identity wallet , or parts thereof , shall be certified according to these schemes. any parts of the wallet which have not been certified according to a european cybersecurity certification scheme shall be subject to the peer review mechanism referred to in article 12(6)(c).


### 1. where european digital wallets issued pursuant to article 6a and the validation mechanisms referred to in article 6a(5) points (a) , (b) and (c) are breached or partly compromised in a manner that affects their reliability or the reliability of the other european digital identity wallets , the issuing member state shall , without delay , suspend the issuance and revoke the validity of the european digital identity wallet and inform the other member states and the commission accordingly. ### 1. where european digital wallets issued pursuant to article 6a and the validation mechanisms referred to in article 6a(5) points (a) , (b) and (c) are breached or partly compromised in a manner that affects their reliability or the reliability of the other european digital identity wallets , the issuing member state shall , without delay , suspend the issuance and revoke the validity of the european digital identity wallet and inform the other member states , the commission , the affected users and relying parties accordingly.


### 2. where the breach or compromise referred to in paragraph 1 is remedied , the issuing member state shall re-establish the issuance and the use of the european digital identity wallet and inform other member states and the commission without undue delay. ### 2. where the breach or compromise referred to in paragraph 1 is remedied , the issuing member state shall re-establish the issuance and the use of the european digital identity wallet and inform other member states , the commission , affected users and relying parties without undue delay.


### 3. if the breach or compromise referred to in paragraph 1 is not remedied within three months of the suspension or revocation , the member state concerned shall withdraw the european digital wallet concerned and inform the other member states and the commission on the withdrawal accordingly. where it is justified by the severity of the breach , the european digital identity wallet concerned shall be withdrawn without delay. ### 3. if the breach or compromise referred to in paragraph 1 is not remedied within three months of the suspension or revocation , the member state concerned shall withdraw the european digital identity wallet concerned and inform the other member states , the commission , the affected users and relying parties on the withdrawal accordingly. where it is justified by the severity of the breach , the european digital identity wallet concerned shall be withdrawn without delay.


### unique identification ### identifiers in cross-border electronic interactions


### 1. when notified electronic identification means and the european digital identity wallets are used for authentication , member states shall ensure unique identification. ### 1. when notified electronic identification means , including the european digital identity wallets are used for cross-border identification and authentication , member states shall ensure unequivocal user identification , through the means of cryptographic techniques.


### 2. member states shall , for the purposes of this regulation , include in the minimum set of person identification data referred to in article 12.4.(d) , a unique and persistent identifier in conformity with union law , to identify the user upon their request in those cases where identification of the user is required by law. ### 2. member states shall , for the purposes of this regulation , provide a minimum set of person identification data referred to in article 12.4.(d) , including a unique and persistent identifier for legal persons in conformity with union law , that can unequivocally identify the user upon their request in those cases where identification of the user is required by law.


### a reference to a minimum set of person identification data necessary to uniquely and persistently represent a natural or legal person;; ### a reference to a minimum set of person identification data uniquely representing a natural person , which is available from electronic identification schemes;


### the exchange of information , experience and good practice as regards electronic identification schemes and in particular technical requirements related to interoperability , unique identification and assurance levels;; ### the exchange of information , experience and good practice as regards electronic identification schemes and in particular technical requirements related to interoperability and assurance levels;


### 3. where very large online platforms as defined in regulation [reference dsa regulation] article 25.1. require users to authenticate to access online services , they shall also accept the use of european digital identity wallets issued in accordance with article 6a strictly upon voluntary request of the user and in respect of the minimum attributes necessary for the specific online service for which authentication is requested , such as proof of age. ### 3. where very large online platforms as defined in regulation [reference dsa regulation] article 25.1. require users to authenticate to access online services , they shall also accept the use of european digital identity wallets issued in accordance with article 6a strictly upon voluntary request of the user and in respect of the right to pseudonyms and of the minimum attributes necessary for the specific online service for which authentication is requested , such as proof of age.


### 2. qualified certificates for website authentication referred to in paragraph 1 shall be recognised by web-browsers. for those purposes web-browsers shall ensure that the identity data provided using any of the methods is displayed in a user friendly manner. web-browsers shall ensure support and interoperability with qualified certificates for website authentication referred to in paragraph 1 , with the exception of enterprises , considered to be microenterprises and small enterprises in accordance with commission recommendation 2003/361/ec in the first 5 years of operating as providers of web-browsing services. ### 2. qualified certificates for website authentication referred to in paragraph 1 shall be recognised by web-browsers without prejudice to their ability to maintain the security of their services and interoperability on the web. for those purposes web-browsers shall endeavour to ensure that the identity data provided using any of the methods is displayed in a user friendly manner. web-browsers shall endeavour to ensure support and interoperability with qualified certificates for website authentication referred to in paragraph 1 , with the exception of enterprises , considered to be microenterprises and small enterprises in accordance with commission recommendation 2003/361/ec in the first 5 years of operating as providers of web-browsing services.


### 2. qualified certificates for website authentication referred to in paragraph 1 shall be recognised by web-browsers. for those purposes web-browsers shall ensure that the identity data provided using any of the methods is displayed in a user friendly manner. web-browsers shall ensure support and interoperability with qualified certificates for website authentication referred to in paragraph 1 , with the exception of enterprises , considered to be microenterprises and small enterprises in accordance with commission recommendation 2003/361/ec in the first 5 years of operating as providers of web-browsing services. ### 2. qualified certificates for website authentication referred to in paragraph 1 shall be recognised by web-browsers. for those purposes , web-browsers shall ensure that the relevant identity data is displayed in a consistent , user friendly manner that reflects industry best practices regarding accessibility , user awareness , and cybersecurity. web-browsers shall ensure support and interoperability with qualified certificates for website authentication referred to in paragraph 1 , with the exception of enterprises , considered to be microenterprises and small enterprises in accordance with commission recommendation 2003/361/ec in the first 5 years of operating as providers of web-browsing services.


### 1. an electronic attestation of attributes shall not be denied legal effect and admissibility as evidence in legal proceedings solely on the grounds that it is in electronic form. ### 1. an electronic attestation of attributes shall not be denied legal effect and admissibility as evidence in legal proceedings solely on the grounds that it is in electronic form or that it has been issued by a trust service provider established in a different member state.


### a qualified electronic archiving service for electronic documents may only be provided by a qualified trust service provider that uses procedures and technologies capable of extending the trustworthiness of the electronic document beyond the technological validity period. ### a qualified electronic archiving service for electronic documents may only be provided by a qualified trust service provider which implements procedures and uses technologies that ensure that all the requirements for an electronic archiving service are met.


### within 12 months after the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall , by means of implementing acts , establish reference numbers of standards for electronic archiving services. those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 48(2). ### within 24 months after the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall , by means of implementing acts , establish reference numbers of standards for electronic archiving services. those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 48(2).


### (3) the commission communication of 9 march 2021 entitled “2030 digital compass: the european way for the digital decade”18 sets the objective of a union framework which , by 2030 , leads to wide deployment of a trusted , user-controlled identity , allowing each user to control their own online interactions and presence. ### (3) the commission communication of 9 march 2021 entitled “2030 digital compass: the european way for the digital decade”18 sets the objective of a union framework which , by 2030 , leads to wide deployment of a trusted , voluntary , user-controlled digital identity , that will be recognised throughout the union and allow each user to control their data and presence in online interactions.


### (24) it is essential to provide for a legal framework to facilitate cross-border recognition between existing national legal systems related to electronic registered delivery services. that framework could also open new market opportunities for union trust service providers to offer new pan-european electronic registered delivery services and ensure that the identification of the recipients is ensured with a higher level of confidence than the identification of the sender. ### (24) it is essential to provide for a legal framework to facilitate cross-border recognition between existing national legal systems related to electronic registered delivery services. that framework could also open new market opportunities for union trust service providers to offer new pan-european electronic registered delivery services and ensure that the identification of the recipients is ensured with a higher level of confidence than the identification of the sender. the framework should include a non-qualified electronic delivery service and a qualified electronic registered delivery service.


### 1. this regulation applies to electronic identification schemes that have been notified by a member state , european digital identity wallets issued by member states and to trust service providers that are established in the union.; ### 1. this regulation applies to electronic identification schemes that have been notified by a member state , european digital identity wallets issued and managed by member states and to trust service providers that are established in the union.;


### in paragraph 3 , points (c) and (d) are deleted; ### in paragraph 3 , point (d) is deleted;


### 9. public permits and licenses; ### 9. public permits , licenses and mandates;


### proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council on the transparency and targeting of political advertising (text with eea relevance) ### proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council on the transparency and targeting of online political advertising (text with eea relevance)


### (2) political advertising can be disseminated or published through various means and media across borders. it can be disseminated or published via traditional offline media such as newspapers , television and radio , and also increasingly via online platforms , websites , mobile applications , computer games and other digital interfaces. the latter are not only particularly prone to be offered cross-border , but also raise novel and difficult regulatory and enforcement challenges. the use of online political advertising is strongly increasing , and certain linear offline forms of political advertising , such as radio and television , are also offered online as on-demand services. political advertising campaigns tend to be organised to make use of a range of media and forms. ### (2) political advertising can be disseminated or published through various means and media across borders. it can be disseminated or published via traditional offline media such as newspapers , television and radio , and also increasingly via online platforms , websites , mobile applications , computer games and other digital interfaces. online political advertising are not only particularly prone to be offered cross-border , but also raise novel and difficult regulatory and enforcement challenges. the use of online political advertising is strongly increasing , and certain linear offline forms of political advertising , such as radio and television , are also offered online as on-demand services. political advertising campaigns tend to be organised to make use of a range of media and forms.


### (5) in the context of political advertising , targeting techniques are frequently used. targeting or amplification techniques should be understood as techniques that are used either to address a tailored political advertisement only to a specific person or group of persons or to increase the circulation , reach or visibility of a political advertisement. given the power and the potential for the misuse of personal data of targeting , including through microtargeting and other advanced techniques , such techniques may present particular threats to legitimate public interests , such as fairness , equal opportunities and transparency in the electoral process and the fundamental right to be informed in an objective , transparent and pluralistic way. ### (5) in the context of political advertising , ad delivery techniques are frequently used. given the power and the potential for the misuse of personal data of targeting , including through microtargeting and other advanced techniques , such techniques may present particular threats to legitimate public interests , such as fairness , equal opportunities and transparency in the electoral process and the fundamental right to be informed the freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart information in an objective , transparent and pluralistic way. this regulation also aims at protecting free and fair elections , at strengthening the resilience of democratic processes in the eu and at upholding the values on which the union is founded , as provided for in article 2 of the treaty on the european union.


### (8) this situation leads to the fragmentation of the internal market , decreases legal certainty for providers of political advertising services preparing , placing , publishing or disseminating political advertisements , creates barriers to the free movement of related services , distorts competition in the internal market , including between offline and online service providers , and requires complex compliance efforts and additional costs for relevant service providers. ### (8) this situation leads to the fragmentation of the internal market , decreases legal certainty for providers of political advertising services preparing , placing , publishing , promoting or disseminating political advertisements , creates barriers to the free movement of related services , distorts competition in the internal market , including between offline and online service providers , and requires complex compliance efforts and additional costs for relevant service providers.


### (11) member states should not maintain or introduce , in their national laws , provisions diverging from those laid down in this regulation , in particular more or less stringent provisions to ensure a different level of transparency in political advertising. full harmonisation of the transparency requirements linked to political advertisement increases legal certainty and reduces the fragmentation of the obligations that service providers meet in the context of political advertising. ### (11) member states should not maintain or introduce , in their national laws , provisions diverging from those laid down in this regulation , in particular more or less stringent provisions to ensure a different level of transparency in political advertising. full harmonisation of the transparency and due diligence requirements linked to political advertisement increases legal certainty and reduces the fragmentation of the obligations that service providers meet in the context of political advertising.


### (14) the regulation should provide for harmonised transparency requirement applicable to economic actors providing political advertising and related services (i.e. activities that are normally provided for remuneration); those services consist in particular of the preparation , placement , promotion , publication and dissemination of political advertising. the rules of this regulation that provide for a high level of transparency of political advertising services are based on article 114 of the tfeu. this regulation should also address the use of targeting and amplification techniques in the context of the publication , dissemination or promotion of political advertising that involve the processing of personal data. the rules of this regulation that address the use of targeting and amplification are based on article 16 of the tfeu. political advertising directed to individuals in a member state should include advertising entirely prepared , placed or published by service providers established outside the union but disseminated to individuals in the union. to determine whether a political advertisement is directed to individuals in a member state , account should be taken of factors linking it to that member state , including language , context , objective of the advertisement and its means of dissemination. ### (14) the regulation should provide for harmonised transparency and due diligence requirement applicable to economic actors providing political advertising and related services (i.e. activities that are normally provided for remuneration); those services consist in particular of the preparation , placement , promotion , publication and dissemination of political advertising. those rules should also apply to the sponsoring of political advertising. the rules of this regulation that provide for a high level of transparency of political advertising services are based on article 114 of the tfeu. this regulation should also address the use of targeting and ad delivery techniques in the context of the publication , dissemination or promotion of political advertising that involve the processing of personal data. the rules of this regulation that address the use of targeting and amplification are based on article 16 of the tfeu. political advertising directed to individuals in a member state should include advertising entirely prepared , placed or published by service providers established outside the union but disseminated to individuals in the union. this regulation should also apply irrespectively of the place of establishment of the sponsor of the political advertising to determine whether a political advertisement is directed to individuals in a member state , account should be taken of factors linking it to that member state , including language , context , objective of the advertisement and its means of dissemination.


### (15) there is no existing definition of political advertising or political advertisement at union level. a common definition is needed to establish the scope of application of the harmonised transparency obligations and rules on targeting and amplification. this definition should cover the many forms that political advertising can take and any means and mode of publication or dissemination within the union , regardless of whether the source is located within the union or in a third country. ### (15) currently , there is no existing definition of political advertising or political advertisement at union level. common definitions are needed to establish the scope of application of the harmonised transparency obligations and rules on targeting. these definitions should cover the many forms that political advertisement can take and any means and mode of placement , publication , promotion or dissemination within the union , regardless of whether the source is located within the union or in a third country.


### (15) there is no existing definition of political advertising or political advertisement at union level. a common definition is needed to establish the scope of application of the harmonised transparency obligations and rules on targeting and amplification. this definition should cover the many forms that political advertising can take and any means and mode of publication or dissemination within the union , regardless of whether the source is located within the union or in a third country. ### (15) there is no existing definition of political advertising or political advertisement at union level. a common definition is needed to establish the scope of application of the harmonised transparency obligations and rules on targeting and amplification. this definition should cover the many forms that political advertising can take and any means and mode of publication or dissemination within the union , regardless of whether the source is located within the union or in a third country. this definition should not cover messages of private or commercial nature including cases where a commercial stakeholder expresses support to a political topic for branding purposes.


### (16) the definition of political advertising should include advertising published or disseminated directly or indirectly by or published or disseminated directly or indirectly for or on behalf of a political actor. since advertisements by , for or on behalf of a political actor cannot be detached from their activity in their role as political actor , they can be presumed to be liable to influence the political debate , except for messages of purely private or purely commercial nature. ### (16) the definition of political advertising should cover preparation , placement , publication , promotion or dissemination of a message by , for or on behalf of a political actor , in both direct and indirect way , or a message by other actors which is liable and designed to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , a legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour.


### (16) the definition of political advertising should include advertising published or disseminated directly or indirectly by or published or disseminated directly or indirectly for or on behalf of a political actor. since advertisements by , for or on behalf of a political actor cannot be detached from their activity in their role as political actor , they can be presumed to be liable to influence the political debate , except for messages of purely private or purely commercial nature. ### (16) the definition of political advertising should include advertising sponsored , promoted , published or disseminated directly or indirectly by or sponsored , promoted , published or disseminated directly or indirectly for or on behalf of a political actor. since advertisements by , for or on behalf of a political actor cannot be detached from their activity in their role as political actor , they can be presumed to be liable to influence the political debate , except for messages of purely private or purely commercial nature.


### (17) the publication or dissemination by other actors of a message that is liable to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour should also constitute political advertising. in order to determine whether the publication or dissemination of a message is liable to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , a legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour , account should be taken of all relevant factors such as the content of the message , the language used to convey the message , the context in which the message is conveyed , the objective of the message and the means by which the message is published or disseminated. messages on societal or controversial issues may , as the case may be , be liable to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , a legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour. ### (17) with regards to the advertisement by other actors of a message that is liable and designed to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour it is necessary to determine this on a case-by-case basis. for this purpose , account should be taken of all relevant factors at the time of preparation , placement , publication , promotion or dissemination of the message , such as the sponsor of the message and the entity or person ultimately controlling the sponsor , content of the message , the language used to convey the message , the context in which the message is conveyed , timing of the message including electoral or referendum periods , the objective and nature of the message and the means by which the message is prepared , placed , published , promoted or disseminated. messages on public , societal or controversial issues may , as the case may be , be liable and designed to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , a legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour.


### (17) the publication or dissemination by other actors of a message that is liable to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour should also constitute political advertising. in order to determine whether the publication or dissemination of a message is liable to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , a legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour , account should be taken of all relevant factors such as the content of the message , the language used to convey the message , the context in which the message is conveyed , the objective of the message and the means by which the message is published or disseminated. messages on societal or controversial issues may , as the case may be , be liable to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , a legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour. ### (17) the sponsoring , promotion , publication or dissemination by other actors of a message that aims and is designed to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , or voting behaviour should also constitute political advertising. in order to determine whether the publication or dissemination of a message aims and is designed to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , or voting behaviour , account should be taken of all relevant factors such as the content of the message , the language used to convey the message , the context in which the message is conveyed , the identity of the sponsor , the objective of the message and the means by which the message is published or disseminated , the audience targeted and the objective of the message. messages on societal or controversial issues may , as the case may be , be liable to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , or voting behaviour.


### (17) the publication or dissemination by other actors of a message that is liable to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour should also constitute political advertising. in order to determine whether the publication or dissemination of a message is liable to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , a legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour , account should be taken of all relevant factors such as the content of the message , the language used to convey the message , the context in which the message is conveyed , the objective of the message and the means by which the message is published or disseminated. messages on societal or controversial issues may , as the case may be , be liable to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , a legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour. ### (17) the publication or dissemination by other actors of a message that is liable to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour should also constitute political advertising. in order to determine whether the publication or dissemination of a message is liable to influence the outcome of an election or referendum , a legislative or regulatory process or voting behaviour , account should be taken of all relevant factors such as the content of the message , the language used to convey the message , the context in which the message is conveyed , the objective of the message and the means by which the message is published or disseminated.