Digital Certificate Spain
The Spanish digital certificate is the electronic key to the online Spanish government. It is a file you install on your computer that proves your identity to official Spanish institutions, from the tax authority to the social security system to your local municipality.
What the digital certificate is
The digital certificate, in Spanish the Certificado Digital or Certificado Electrónico, is issued by the FNMT, the Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre. The FNMT is the official Spanish institution responsible for issuing these certificates to individuals.
Once set up, the certificate allows you to log in to Spanish government portals and sign official documents digitally, without needing to appear in person or send documents by post.
What you can do with it
The digital certificate gives you direct access to the most important Spanish government systems.
With it you can log in to the Agencia Tributaria, the Spanish tax authority, to view your tax file, file your annual income tax return and submit quarterly declarations as a self-employed person. You can access IMPORTASS, the Seguridad Social portal, to check your contribution history, view your pension entitlements and request forms such as the S1. You can use the Censos Web to register as a self-employed person via the Modelo 036. And you can interact with municipal and regional government portals that require official digital identification.
How it differs from Cl@ve
Spain uses two main systems for digital identification: Cl@ve and the digital certificate. Cl@ve works via an SMS code and an online account and covers a wide range of everyday government interactions. The digital certificate goes further. It unlocks more functions, more portals and the ability to sign documents officially. Some processes in Spain accept only the digital certificate, not Cl@ve.
Two ways to apply: browser or app
There are two official routes to get your digital certificate, and you choose the one that suits your situation.
Laptop or desktop (browser route) You request the certificate through your browser using the FNMT Configurador software. The certificate is stored on that specific computer. You must complete the entire process, from the initial request to the final download, on the same computer and in the same browser. This route suits people who work mainly from a fixed computer and want the certificate available directly in their browser.
FNMT mobile app The FNMT Certificados app is the newer route, available for both iOS and Android. You request the certificate directly through the app on your phone. This suits people who prefer to manage everything from their phone or who do not have a fixed computer. The certificate is stored in the app and can be exported as a backup file.
Both routes require one unavoidable step: you must verify your identity in person at an official office. This can be your town hall, the Agencia Tributaria or the INSS. No route bypasses this physical verification.
Who issues it and how long it lasts
The FNMT issues the digital certificate. It is valid for four years. Renewal is possible online before the certificate expires. If the certificate has already expired, the full application process must be repeated, including a physical appointment.
The certificate is personal. It is tied to your identity and your NIE number. There is a separate type of certificate for legal entities and company representatives.
Who needs one
Anyone who lives or works in Spain and wants direct access to Spanish government systems benefits from having a digital certificate. It is particularly relevant for self-employed people, for people managing their own tax affairs and for anyone who wants to deal with the Agencia Tributaria, the Seguridad Social or municipal authorities without going through an intermediary.
Frequently asked questions
Ready to get yours
We walk you through the full application process for the Spanish digital certificate, step by step, via the browser route or the app route. Read more about why the certificate matters, or go straight to the guide.
No credit card required to sign up.