W3C Verifiable Credentials (VC) Data Model 2.0
The W3C Verifiable Credentials Data Model 2.0 (2024) provides a standard for expressing credentials on the web in a way that is cryptographically secure, privacy-respecting, and machine-verifiable. Verifiable Credentials (VCs) are issued by issuers, held by holders, and presented to verifiers. Key features: selective disclosure (reveal only needed attributes), zero-knowledge proofs, decentralised identifiers (DIDs), JSON-LD representation, and multiple proof formats (Data Integrity, JWT, SD-JWT). Use cases include: digital diplomas, government ID, professional licences, health credentials, and age verification. Foundational technology for EU Digital Identity Wallet (eIDAS 2.0), mDL (mobile driver's licence), and numerous national digital identity programmes.
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Framework Domains (5)
Core Data Model
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| VCDM-1 | Context Definition |
| VCDM-2 | Credential Types |
| VCDM-3 | Credential Subject |
| VCDM-4 | Issuer Identification |
Ecosystem and Trust
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| ECO-1 | Three-Party Ecosystem |
| ECO-2 | Privacy Considerations |
| ECO-3 | Accessibility Requirements |
| ECO-4 | Internationalization |
Securing Mechanisms
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| SEC-1 | Data Integrity Proofs |
| SEC-2 | Enveloping Proofs |
| SEC-3 | Non-Repudiation |
Verifiable Credentials
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| VC-1 | Credential Metadata |
| VC-2 | Credential Status |
| VC-3 | Credential Schema |
| VC-4 | Evidence |
Verifiable Presentations
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| VP-1 | Presentation Composition |
| VP-2 | Holder Binding |
| VP-3 | Presentation Validity |
Maps to 522 other frameworks
Frequently Asked Questions
What is W3C Verifiable Credentials (VC) Data Model 2.0?
W3C Verifiable Credentials (VC) Data Model 2.0 is a compliance framework from International (W3C) with 5 domains and 18 controls. The W3C Verifiable Credentials Data Model 2.0 (2024) provides a standard for expressing credentials on the web in a way that is cryptographically secure, privacy-respecting, and machine-verifiable. Verifiable Credentials (VCs) are issued by issuers, held by holders, and presented to verifiers. Key features: selective disclosure (reveal only needed attributes), zero-knowledge proofs, decentralised identifiers (DIDs), JSON-LD representation, and multiple proof formats (Data Integrity, JWT, SD-JWT). Use cases include: digital diplomas, government ID, professional licences, health credentials, and age verification. Foundational technology for EU Digital Identity Wallet (eIDAS 2.0), mDL (mobile driver's licence), and numerous national digital identity programmes. It is used by organisations to establish and maintain compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
How many controls does W3C Verifiable Credentials (VC) Data Model 2.0 have?
W3C Verifiable Credentials (VC) Data Model 2.0 has 18 controls organised across 5 domains. The largest domains are Core Data Model (4 controls), Ecosystem and Trust (4 controls), Verifiable Credentials (4 controls). Each control defines specific requirements that organisations must implement to achieve compliance.
What frameworks does W3C Verifiable Credentials (VC) Data Model 2.0 map to?
W3C Verifiable Credentials (VC) Data Model 2.0 maps to 522 other compliance frameworks. The top mapping partners are eIDAS 2.0 — EU Digital Identity Regulation (39% coverage), Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA) (39% coverage), EU European Health Data Space (EHDS) (39% coverage). Use our comparison tool to explore control-level mappings between frameworks.
How do I get started with W3C Verifiable Credentials (VC) Data Model 2.0 compliance?
Start your W3C Verifiable Credentials (VC) Data Model 2.0 compliance journey by running a self-assessment on our platform to identify your current compliance posture. Our AI advisory can answer specific questions about W3C Verifiable Credentials (VC) Data Model 2.0 requirements, and cross-framework mapping helps you leverage existing controls from other frameworks you may already comply with. Create a free account to access all 18 controls and track your progress.
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