Introduction to World ID Credentials
World ID Credentials let you securely verify and store information from your NFC chip-enabled government ID on your phone. This information is kept exclusively on your device as part of your Personal Custody Package — it is never shared with Tools for Humanity, World Foundation, or any third party.
World ID App allows you to add, view, and manage your identity Credentials directly from the Credentials tab.
Once added, your Credentials can be used through the World ID protocol and its zero-knowledge proof technology to selectively prove things about yourself — such as confirming you are over 18 — without revealing your identity or any other personal information.
Credential Types
Human Credential
The Human Credential is obtained when you get verified with the Orb.
Official ID
The following NFC-enabled government ID types are currently supported (where available):
- Passports
- National ID Cards, such as:
- eID (Italy)
- My Number Card (Japan)
NFC (Near Field Communication) is a wireless technology that allows your phone to securely read information from a compatible document held in close proximity. Most modern smartphones support NFC. On Android, NFC must be enabled in your device settings. On iPhone, NFC is always on.
To be eligible, a passport must display the biometric chip symbol (the small rectangular icon with a circle) on its cover:
How to Add a Credential
- Open the Credentials tab in World ID App.
- Tap the Add verification button.
- Select your government ID type (e.g., Passport or National ID).
- Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your document's NFC chip.
- Once verified, your Credential will appear in the Credentials tab.
Expired Credentials
If a Credential's underlying ID has expired, it will be flagged in the Credentials tab. You will need to re-verify using a valid, unexpired document to restore or update the Credential.
Troubleshooting
I'm having trouble scanning my ID
Visit this article for help resolving common scanning issues: I'm having issues verifying my passport or national ID.
I'm seeing an error when scanning
Common errors include:
- ID Card Expired — The document cannot be used. Try a different, valid ID.
- Country Not Supported — The country of issue is not yet supported. Try a different eligible document.
- No Photo Loaded — The chip on this document did not return photo data. Try a different eligible document.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check if my device supports NFC?
Check your device's technical documentation:
- To enable NFC on Android, go to Settings and search for NFC.
- On iPhone, NFC is always enabled.
What ID types can I use?
Currently, NFC-enabled passports and national ID cards are supported. Additional document types may be added in the future.
Where is my data stored?
All information collected during credential verification stays on your device within your Personal Custody Package. Tools for Humanity, World Foundation, and any other third parties have no access to this data.
Who can see my Credential data?
Only you. Your Credential data is stored locally on your device and is never transmitted to or retained by any external party.
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