This ad hoc query aims to explore current practices and possible lessons learned on issuing or planning to issue digital-only identity and residency documents to third-country nationals.

Belgium begins the gradual introduction of a new model of the Registration Certificate (RC), also known as the “orange card”, on 28 September 2026. The new RC takes the form of a secure passport-type booklet and is being introduced alongside the existing orange card and temporary A4 model.