EU Login secure authentication methods

Secure authentication methods

Until June 2025, it will still be possible to use a code received by SMS to authenticate.

As from 1st July 2025, only the options illustrated opposite (relevant document to be added soon) will enable you to log into the European Commission service :

–       EU Login app (see EU LOGIN APP  guide) is quite easy to use. You need to have a smartphone. In case you encounter problems during the configuration of the EU Login App, do consult our guide EU LOGIN APP Activation problems. 

The following video illustrates the procedure: https://trusted-digital-identity.europa.eu/eu-login-help/how-can-i-add-mobile-device-my-eu-login-account_en (scroll down to “Instructions”). The video is in English, but you can get printed subtitles in a wide range of languages by clicking on the ‘Subtitles’ button at the bottom right of the screen → choose your language.

NB: At a certain point, the video asks you to enter your email address and EU Login password, but without telling you where to do it. You need to open https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/cas/ and then follow the instructions given, accessing My account.

–        eID (see our guide for eID):  If your country offers a national version of eID (like ItsMe in Belgium), you can easily enable this authentication option in your EU Login account. See our separate practical guide for ItsMe (French only).

–       Trusted Platform (see ‘TRUSTED PLATFORM’ guide) is very easy to both enable and use. Requirements: Windows 10 or 11, or Apple devices from ca. 2017, depending on model. It will work on the device on which it was enabled, but synchronisation of devices is possible.  

–       Passkey (see activation guide for Passkey) is similar to the Trusted Platform option (above). It is especially indicated for mobile devices (smartphone, tablet, iPad). The Passkey is very easy to use. It is stored in the software of the mobile device and can be used to enable access directly from the mobile device itself or for authenticating on your mobile device when accessing the Commission services from a computer.

–       Security key (see activation guide for Security key).  This is an external hardware device which you would need to buy. It must be FIDO2 compliant. Once it is set up, it will enable you to authenticate securely and easily from any device by connecting your Security key via the USB socket.

These last three methods do NOT require you to have a smartphone, and they can be used for several EU Login accounts (if you also handle the account of your spouse or a close relative, for instance).

For those interested in the more technical aspects, here is a table explaining the last 3 options.

All the guides are equally available in English, French and Danish under the “Documentation” tab on our website. Just search for the relevant guide by typing the key word into the search field next to the magnifying glass.