Credential Manifest

The Credential Manifest is a standardized data format that enables credential issuers to communicate requirements and specifications for credential issuance to user agents (like digital wallets). Developed by the Decentralized Identity Foundation (DIF), it serves as a bridge between issuers and holders in the digital credential ecosystem.

The standard provides a structured way for issuers to:

• Define prerequisite requirements for credential issuance
• Specify display preferences and branding
• Describe the format and content of output credentials
• Set validation rules and input requirements

Key features include:

• Output Descriptors for defining credential schemas and display formats
• Presentation Definitions for specifying required input credentials
• Format Specifications for supported credential types
• Display Properties for consistent UI rendering

Technical Specifications:

1. Purpose and Scope:

• Enables standardized credential issuance negotiation
• Provides machine-readable credential requirements
• Supports multiple credential formats and protocols
• Facilitates consistent user experience across implementations

2. Key Technical Components:

• id property for unique manifest identification
• spec_version for version control
• issuer object containing issuer information
• output_descriptors array defining credential outputs
• presentation_definition for input requirements
• format property for supported credential formats

3. Implementation Requirements:

• Must support JSON Schema validation
• Must implement Presentation Exchange specification
• Must handle both fulfillment and denial responses
• Must support specified embed targets (OpenID, DIDComm, VP, CHAPI)

4. Security Considerations:

• Requires secure transport protocols
• Supports multiple proof formats and algorithms
• Enables verification of issuer identity
• Includes application and response validation

5. Interoperability Features:

• Standard JSON-LD contexts
• Compatible with W3C Verifiable Credentials
• Supports multiple credential formats
• Standardized embedding locations

6. Current Status:

• Working Group Approved Draft
• Actively maintained by DIF
• Implementations in progress across various platforms
• Ongoing development of complementary specifications

The standard is designed to work within the broader digital identity ecosystem, providing a crucial link between credential issuers and holders while maintaining flexibility for different implementation approaches and use cases.