Become an Issuer

Issuers are trusted authorities that issue verifiable credentials to principals and agents within the APIS framework.

Issuer Tier Model

APIS defines a tiered model for issuers based on their trust level and verification requirements.

Tier 1

Foundational Issuers

Organizations that issue credentials to principals (humans or organizations) who then authorize agents. Requires basic identity verification.

• Basic organizational verification
• Standard credential issuance
• Registry participation

Tier 2

Accredited Issuers

Organizations with enhanced verification processes and compliance frameworks. May issue credentials for higher-risk use cases.

• Enhanced due diligence
• Compliance certification
• Higher credential limits

Tier 3

Root Issuers

Highly trusted organizations that can issue credentials to other issuers. Typically government agencies, major financial institutions, or equivalent entities.

• Maximum trust level
• Can issue sub-issuer credentials
• Subject to strict governance

Requirements Highlights

Technical Requirements

• Secure key management infrastructure
• Credential issuance API
• Revocation registry management
• Logging and audit capabilities

Governance Requirements

• Legal entity verification
• Identity verification procedures
• Compliance framework adherence
• Incident response processes

Path to Recognition

Apply

Submit an issuer application demonstrating your organization's capabilities and compliance readiness.

Verify

Complete the verification process including technical assessment and governance review.

Onboard

Integrate with the APIS registry and begin issuing credentials according to the standard.

Maintain

Maintain compliance and participate in ongoing governance activities.