Parliament: E-residents introduced to new remote verification system without ID card

The Riigikogu passed the first reading of a government-initiated bill that concerns changes to e-resident identification procedures. The new system would enable e-residents to verify their identity remotely without the need to use a physical ID card.

The Riigikogu began proceedings on a bill submitted by the government in its first reading, which outlines changes to e-resident identification procedures. According to the bill, e-residents would be given the opportunity to verify their identity remotely without using a traditional ID card.

Under current procedures, individuals applying for e-residency must undergo identity verification in person, which means they are required to appear at a designated representative office. The proposed changes would significantly simplify the process and make it more accessible to people located far from Estonia.

The e-residency programme has attracted thousands of entrepreneurs and digital nomads from around the world since its launch in 2014. Estonian e-residency provides non-citizens access to Estonia's digital infrastructure, including business and banking services. The new remote verification system could further increase the programme's appeal by streamlining the registration process.

For the bill to become law, it must also be approved in subsequent readings in the Riigikogu plenary.