Belgium Expands Digital ID Options with Smart-ID Integration
Belgian citizens now have another secure method for accessing online government services with the addition of the Estonian app Smart-ID. This expands the existing options of Itsme and MyGov.be, providing greater choice and flexibility for digital identification.
Smart-ID Joins Belgium’s Digital Authentication Ecosystem
As of March 16, 2026, the Smart-ID app, developed by Estonian company SK ID Solutions, is officially recognized for logging into Belgian government websites [VRT News]. The app joins Itsme and MyGov.be as the third approved digital key for accessing online public services.
How Smart-ID Works
To use Smart-ID, citizens necessitate to download the app and activate their account. Once activated, it can be used to log in to services like MyMinFin and MyPension [VRT News]. The recognition of Smart-ID as a valid digital key is initially granted for a period of three years, as announced by BOSA.
The Rise of Digital Identity in Belgium
The introduction of Smart-ID is part of a broader trend towards digital identity solutions in Belgium. Until recently, access to government sites was primarily limited to using Itsme or an ID card reader [Brussels Times].
MyGov.be: A State-Run Alternative
In May of last year, the Belgian government launched MyGov.be, a state-run digital identity app designed to complement Itsme and enhance the government’s control over digital authentication [Biometric Update]. MyGov.be allows citizens to securely access a range of government platforms, including Tax-on-Web, My Pension, and My eBox [Brussels Times].
MyGov.be Features
- Digital Portfolio: Citizens can store official documents issued by the government, with plans to include identity cards, driving licenses, and certificates in the future [MyGov.be].
- Digital Hub: Users can request official documents and certificates directly through the app [MyGov.be].
- Access to Services: MyGov.be provides access to a wide range of public services and information [MyGov.be].
Growing Adoption of MyGov.be
MyGov.be has seen increasing adoption since its launch, with over 400,000 sign-ins recorded [Biometric Update]. The app can be activated using either an electronic identity card (eID) or an existing Itsme account [MyGov.be].
Key Takeaways
- Belgium now offers three digital ID options for accessing government services: Itsme, MyGov.be, and Smart-ID.
- Smart-ID is an Estonian app developed by SK ID Solutions.
- MyGov.be is a state-run alternative to Itsme, launched in May 2025.
- MyGov.be allows citizens to store and access official documents digitally.
Worth a look