Bhutan National Digital Identity

The Bhutan National Digital Identity (NDI) is a pioneering self-sovereign identity system launched in 2023 by Druk Holding and Investments (DHI), making Bhutan the first country to implement a national-scale SSI-based digital identity. The system is built on blockchain technology using the W3C Verifiable Credentials Data Model and operates through a digital wallet that gives citizens complete control over their personal data and credential sharing. Key technical features include:

• Decentralized architecture with no central database storage
• Biometric authentication using facial recognition and planned fingerprint support
• Integration with Polygon blockchain for enhanced scalability
• Support for zero-knowledge proofs and selective disclosure
• Multi-factor authentication combining biometrics and PIN
• Offline capabilities through QR-based physical credentials

The system has achieved notable adoption through integration with essential services, including 12 government-to-citizen (G2C) services like passport issuance, birth registration, and land taxes. Key partnerships include Bank of Bhutan, Tashicell, and the Royal University of Bhutan. The platform was developed by a small team of approximately 20 people and operates under the Digital Identity Act, which establishes legal frameworks for digital signatures and data privacy while mandating the dissolution of centralized government databases in favor of the decentralized model.