A measure of confidence in the identity verification process, classified as low, substantial, or high under eIDAS, determining the trust level of an electronic identification means.
Level of Assurance (LoA) is a classification that indicates the degree of confidence in the identity proofing, authentication, and management processes behind an electronic identification means. Under the eIDAS framework, three levels are defined: low, substantial, and high. A low LoA provides a limited degree of confidence in the claimed identity; substantial provides a higher degree of confidence, typically involving multi-factor authentication and verified identity proofing; and high provides the highest degree of confidence, requiring in-person or equivalent remote identity proofing and strong authentication mechanisms resistant to sophisticated attacks.
Under eIDAS 2.0, the European Digital Identity Wallet must operate at the high Level of Assurance for its Person Identification Data. This means the identity proofing process used to issue PID to a wallet holder must meet the stringent requirements of LoA high, as specified in Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1502 and any updated implementing acts under eIDAS 2.
0. The high LoA requirement reflects the critical role the wallet plays as a government-backed identity instrument with cross-border legal effect. For relying parties, the LoA determines the level of trust they can place in an identity assertion.
Relying parties offering services that require strong identity verification, such as opening bank accounts, accessing health records, or signing legal documents, will typically require LoA high. The LoA concept helps organisations calibrate their identity requirements to the risk level of the service they provide, ensuring that the verification process is proportionate to the potential harm of identity fraud.
Related Terms
Electronic Identification (eID)
The process of using electronic means to verify a person's identity, forming the foundation of the eIDAS regulation and the basis for cross-border digital identity in the EU.
Digital IdentityPerson Identification Data (PID)
The core set of identity attributes, such as name, date of birth, and a unique identifier, issued by a Member State and stored in the EUDIW, forming the foundation of the wallet holder's digital identity.
Digital IdentityeID Scheme
A national electronic identification system established by a Member State, defining how electronic identities are issued, managed, and used for authentication.
Core RegulationEuropean Digital Identity Wallet (EUDIW)
A mobile application that every EU Member State must provide to citizens and residents, enabling them to store and present digital identity credentials and attestations across borders.
Digital Identity