eIDAS 2.0: A new era for guest data management Written on 21 May 2024

The hospitality industry is on the cusp of a major transformation. With the upcoming enforcement of the European Union’s eIDAS 2.0 regulation, hoteliers are being called to rethink how they handle guest data management — not just as a legal checkbox, but as a chance to transform the guest experience.

This new regulation promises a smoother and more secure experience for both guests and hoteliers. But here's the catch: it requires hotels to be proactive and get ready fast.

So, is your hotel ready to embrace the change?

What Is eIDAS 2.0 and why should hoteliers care?

Recently approved by EU member states, eIDAS 2.0 (an update to the original Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services regulation) redefines how digital transactions are handled across Europe. At the heart of this shift is the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet) — a secure mobile vault where citizens will store essential documents digitally.

For hotels, this means guests will be able to check in, verify their identities, and access their rooms — all through a digital wallet, without presenting physical documents.

A major step towards secure online transactions in Europe is in place. EU member states recently approved a regulation called eIDAS 2.0 that overhauls how digital transactions are handled. At the heart of this change is digital identity and the European Digital Identity Wallet — or EUDI Wallet for short.

Think of it as a framework that ensures secure and standardized digital identification across the EU. It requires businesses to accept customers’ digital wallets and to offer strong electronic verification methods. For hospitality, this translates to faster check-ins and a more streamlined experience for guests.

The EUDI Wallet is key to this new system. This would be a secure digital vault on guests’ phones that will store all of their essential documents electronically. Citizen cards or, in general, anything you need from guests to check in and populate your PMS, including issuing a key, will be accessed and shared easily, eliminating the need for physical copies and minimizing the risk of lost or stolen documents.

Guests can expect a smoother and more secure experience with a digital wallet. Stronger identification methods boost security and prevent fraud, while privacy controls ensure they only share the information necessary for the reservation, keeping their personal information safe.

This also offers hoteliers a golden opportunity – reduced paperwork, stronger security, and more opportunities for personalized guest experiences. But time is of the essence – early implementation is crucial.

In sum, here’s how this impacts hospitality:

Faster check-ins – Guest data is pre-verified and shared digitally.
Fewer manual tasks – No more passport scans or paperwork at reception.
Increased data accuracy – Reduces human error and duplicated entries.
Enhanced guest privacy – Guests control exactly what information they share.
Improved compliance – Aligns with GDPR and eIDAS 2.0 mandates.

Want to understand how digital identity fits into the bigger picture? Read our article on how hotel technology is simplifying guest ID management.

By eliminating reliance on physical IDs and manual entry, hoteliers gain both operational efficiency and guest trust — two pillars of modern guest data management.

Getting ready for eIDAS 2.0

With eIDAS 2.0 mandating the acceptance of digital wallets across the EU by 2026, the hospitality industry faces a fast-approaching deadline. Two years can vanish in the blink of an eye. Hotels that delay preparation for eIDAS 2.0 risk encountering significant friction when the regulation takes effect.

Here's what hoteliers can do to prepare:

Develop a strategy: Start planning now to ensure a smooth transition when eIDAS 2.0 becomes mandatory.
Invest in integrated solutions: Look for data management solutions that integrate with your existing PMS and prioritize guest privacy.
Prioritize transparency: Be clear with guests about what data you collect and how you use it.

eIDAS 2.0 isn't just a regulation, it's a revolution for businesses. Think of it as more than just compliance. eIDAS 2.0 presents a golden opportunity to transform your guest experience. Imagine faster check-ins, enhanced security, and a seamless experience that keeps guest data safe. But most importantly, it allows you to personalize guest experiences like never before.