Turkey to Integrate Blockchain into National Digital ID System

Turkey is advancing its national digitization efforts by implementing blockchain technology in its digital identity system. The initiative builds upon the T.C. Kimlik Karti program, which has distributed smart digital ID cards to over 83 million Turkish residents since its 2017 launch, with fewer than two million individuals remaining to be onboarded.

The Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system and the Scientific and Technological Research Institution of Turkey (TUBITAK) are collaborating on enhancing the national digital ID program. TUBITAK, which has previously led several national technology initiatives, has been designated to lead the infrastructure development, ensuring alignment with international standards and security protocols.

The digital ID system will integrate with both public and private services, encompassing healthcare, voting, social security, and travel documentation. The ID cards feature embedded chips that store biometric information and personal data, with blockchain technology implemented to maintain privacy and transparency.

In the private sector, Colle AI is exploring integration of the digital ID system with its NFT project, which uses artificial intelligence for streamlined digital collection creation. Additional adoption is expected across healthcare, finance, AI, and education sectors, with several major Turkish banks already implementing compatibility with the digital ID system for customer verification.

Recent regulatory updates include new digital asset requirements, mandating identity verification for transactions exceeding $400 and implementing increased monitoring of unregistered wallets. These measures, which took effect in December 2024, represent Turkey’s first comprehensive framework for digital asset oversight. These developments are part of Turkey’s comprehensive digital transformation strategy, which combines artificial intelligence, blockchain, Big Data, and Internet of Things technologies to create a more secure and efficient digital ecosystem.

Sources: CoinGeek

January 21, 2025 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team