Swiss Voters Embrace Digital Future with Electronic Identity Cards

Mon Sep 29 2025 00:24:43 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a closely contested referendum, Swiss citizens approve a plan for electronic identity cards that promises enhanced security and control over personal data.

Swiss voters have narrowly approved a proposal to introduce electronic identity cards, with 50.4% supporting the plan compared to 49.6% against it. This decision comes after a previous rejection of similar proposals, addressing concerns over data control. The new system will be government-managed, with data stored on individual smartphones, allowing citizens to choose between digital IDs and traditional identity cards.

Swiss voters have narrowly approved a plan to introduce electronic identity cards in the country.

With all votes counted, 50.4% of those who voted said yes to the proposal, while 49.6% rejected it.

The closeness of the ballot is a surprise. Opinion polls had suggested up to 60% backed digital IDs, which also had the approval of the Swiss government, and both houses of parliament.

It marks the second time the Swiss have had a nationwide vote on digital IDs. An earlier proposal was rejected in 2021, amid concerns the data would be held centrally, and controlled largely by private providers.

Sunday's revised proposal keeps the system in government hands.

Data will be stored only on the smartphones of individual users, and digital IDs will be optional. Citizens can continue to use Switzerland's national identity card if they choose.