Nearly 400,000 national ID cards in Latvia may develop into invalid for digital signature transactions by June if a solution isn’t found, according to reports. The Latvian government has stated it is working to address the issue.
Chip Certification and EU Regulations
The problem stems from microchips used in ID cards issued between 2019 and 2022. The supplier of these chips announced in 2022 it would discontinue support and certification for the model. This timing coincides with changes in European digital identity regulations. since 2024, the EU’s eIDAS regulations require certification for qualified electronic signature creation devices to be valid for only five years.
The potential invalidation of these cards is a significant concern given the widespread use of digital signatures in Latvia. Over 18 million e-signature users were recorded in the country in 2025, with more than seven million relying on their ID cards for these transactions.
Cost and Potential Solutions
Replacing the affected cards is not considered a viable option due to the estimated cost of 11 million euros (US$12.6 million). The Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (PMLP) is exploring legislation that would allow the cards to remain valid for digital signatures even without current EU-level certification. Authorities are also encouraging citizens to activate the mobile e-signature service as an alternative.
The Latvian government discussed establishing a new national ID issuance system last year, a project estimated to cost 10 million euros, with over two-thirds of the funding expected to come from the European Union. This new system is anticipated to be operational within four years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the potential issue with Latvian ID cards?
The microchip model in approximately 400,000 ID cards issued between 2019 and 2022 is facing expiration of its certification, and the supplier has discontinued support for it.
How many people in Latvia use digital signatures?
There were over 18 million e-signature users in Latvia in 2025, with more than seven million of them relying on ID cards for these transactions.
What is the Latvian government doing to address the problem?
The government is considering legislation to maintain the cards’ validity for digital signatures even without EU certification and is urging citizens to use the mobile e-signature service. They are also planning a new national ID issuance system.
As Latvia navigates these challenges, how might the balance between national digital infrastructure and evolving EU regulations continue to shape the future of digital identity for its citizens?
