Paperwork
What Is a Spanish Digital Certificate, and Why Get One?
A digital certificate saves you queues, appointments and paper forms. It’s free, and once you have it you’ll use it all the time.
By
How to Live in Spain
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2 min read
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Spain’s certificado digital is an online ID issued free by the FNMT. It lets you sign and file paperwork with the Tax Agency, Social Security and immigration online, instead of booking an appointment for every form.
What you can do with it
With a certificate you can file tax returns, apply to renew your residence online and track your file, and sign documents with the government’s AutoFirma app. Many things that would otherwise need a cita previa can be done from home.
How to get one
You’ll need your NIE, an email address and a computer you’ll use again. Install the FNMT configurator, request a Persona Física certificate on the FNMT site and save the code you’re emailed. Then prove your identity, in person at an accreditation office or by video call if that’s offered. Finally, download the certificate on the same computer and browser you used for the request.
Keep it safe
Export a password-protected backup straight away. Certificates last four years, and you can renew online before they expire.
Follow our Digital certificate checklist, or set up Cl@ve as a simpler phone login.
The FNMT certificate is free
You need your NIE to request it
Download it on the computer you requested it on
Back it up as a password-protected file
It lasts four years and renews online
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