Verifiable Credentials - EU SSI and EBSI for Smart Cities

Smart cities are leveraging verifiable credentials – digitally signed proofs of identity, qualifications, or entitlements – under the EU SSI framework and EBSI infrastructure.

This approach enables secure, privacy-respecting digital identity for citizens and interoperable services across sectors.

For example, European students can carry a verifiable student ID to obtain local city benefits abroad aoc.cat, and cities like Zug issue blockchain-based resident IDs that grant access to e-government portals and even e-voting. Health credentials (such as the EU COVID Certificate) are verifiable across borders, improving safe travel and event access. Cities are also piloting digital permits and professional licenses (e.g. teacher credentials or market stall permits) to streamline administration.

By adopting verifiable credentials, smart cities enhance trust, data security, and user control, while fostering seamless cross-border and cross-sector digital services for residents.