A Digital Certificate (Certificado Digital) is an official electronic identification system in Spain. It allows you to deal with Spanish government authorities online without visiting offices in person.
It is commonly used for:
- Spanish tax procedures;
- Social Security matters;
- downloading official documents;
- municipal services;
- traffic and DGT procedures;
- digitally signing documents.
The most commonly used certificate for individuals is issued by the Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre.
The official application is made through:
FNMT Official Digital Certificate Website
What information do you need?
Usually you will need:
- NIE or DNI number;
- full name;
- valid email address;
- identification document;
- computer or device for installation.
Important: the request and installation are usually completed on the same browser and device.
Step 1 — Request an application code
On the FNMT website you first request an application code.
You must provide:
- NIE or DNI;
- first surname;
- email address.
You will then receive a code by email.
Step 2 — Verify your identity
After the online request, your identity must be officially verified.
This can usually be done:
In person
At an official registration office such as:
- Spanish Tax Agency;
- Social Security office;
- some town halls.
Bring:
- passport or ID;
- NIE document;
- application code.
Online
Some applications allow video identification.
Step 3 — Download the certificate
Once approved, you can download the certificate.
Important:
- use the same browser and device;
- do not switch computers;
- create a backup immediately.
Why is a Digital Certificate important?
More and more procedures in Spain are now fully digital. Without a digital certificate you may need to:
- attend appointments in person;
- send additional paperwork;
- wait longer for procedures.
With a Digital Certificate many procedures can be completed entirely online.
Need assistance?
Spanish government procedures can be confusing, especially for foreigners.
At Solicitud Certificado Digital we can assist you with:
- the official application;
- identity verification;
- installation and setup;
- browser or technical problems.