EMN Inform: Digitalisation of identity documents and residence permits issued to third-country nationals , Date: 2024.03.26, format: report, area: Authority

The majority of EMN Member and Observer Countries currently issue physical residence permits, incorporating biometric data and electronic elements. Notably, Italy, Lithuania, and Poland have started issuing digital-only residence permits and identity documents. The inform sheds light on the motivations behind adopting digital-only documents, where high numbers of arrivals and applications for residence stemming from Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine prompted a shift towards digital solutions.

Countries like Estonia followed suit by digitalising the procedure to apply for temporary protection – aiding with the administrative workload of approximately 41,000 applications in December 2022. Likewise, Lithuania successfully avoided the production of more than 42,000 physical documents through full digitalisation. The advantages cited include enhanced securi-ty, resource savings, and streamlined procedures.

However, the inform also underscores particular concerns surrounding digital-only documents, emphasising the importance of addressing issues related to digital literacy, potential fraud, and the need for interoperability during border checks.

This inform is only available in English.