Bhutan Migrates National ID System to Ethereum
Bhutan is moving its national self-sovereign ID system from Polygon to Ethereum. This change will let nearly 800,000 Bhutanese citizens verify their identities and access government services using Ethereum’s blockchain.
Ethereum Foundation President Aya Miyaguchi confirmed the integration with Ethereum is complete. The migration of all citizen credentials is expected by the first quarter of 2026.
Miyaguchi and Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin joined Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and Crown Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuk at the launch ceremony. Miyaguchi called the event a “world-first” and a major step toward a secure digital future.
A Global First in Blockchain Governance
Bhutan’s move to Ethereum is its third blockchain ID system. It previously used Hyperledger Indy and Polygon.
The switch shows growing trust in Ethereum’s security, transparency, and compatibility with zero-knowledge proofs. These proofs protect citizen privacy and data integrity.
While countries like Brazil and Vietnam have tested blockchain IDs, Bhutan is the first to implement it nationwide.
Bhutan’s Growing Role in Crypto
- Bhutan is the fifth-largest Bitcoin holder with 11,286 BTC, worth about $1.31 billion.
- Most Bitcoin was mined using Bhutan’s sustainable hydropower.
- In September, Bhutanese officials met former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao to discuss crypto partnerships.
This move strengthens Bhutan’s reputation as a leader in blockchain adoption and digital sovereignty.
