Foreigners who have settled in Spain and deal with obtaining various kinds of legal services may have already encountered the concept of “Digital Certificates”. Find out why digital certificates are needed and how they simplify life in Spain

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Spain is the fourth country in the world in terms of the number of expats in Europe and 10th in the world. As of 2024, there are about 9 million foreigners living here, representatives of various countries, including citizens of Peru, El Salvador, the Philippines and Colombia.

Given that traveling abroad is usually associated with obtaining various kinds of documents, familiarization with the bureaucratic component of moving to Spain, including digital certificates, is very important for foreigners,

Digital certificates (Certificado Digital) significantly simplify obtaining administrative services in Spain, as they allow you to have access to most administrative services online. With this document, you can file a tax return or register your stay in Spain without unnecessary stress.

We have collected all the useful information that an expat needs to know about digital certificates in Spain in this guide.

What is a digital certificate in Spain?

A digital certificate in Spain is a special electronic document that can confirm your identity when making online transactions. It is completely secure, as it is created using special ciphers.

Most Spanish citizens and expats use a certificate to access government services and securely manage personal data online.

Digital certificates are issued by the Spanish National Currency and Stamp Factory or Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre (FNMT).

When might an expat need a digital certificate in Spain?

The benefits of a digital certificate for expats who have settled in Spain can be invaluable, as this document allows you to receive the following services online:

- Submit your tax return to the agency (Agencia Tributaria).

- Access health services and social security information.

- Register with local authorities or complete census tasks.

- Maintain property documentation.

What are the benefits of a digital certificate in Spain?

- No queues

Using a digital certificate allows you to avoid unnecessary trips to government offices, where you often have to wait in huge queues.

- No language barrier

For those who are not fluent in Spanish, having a digital certificate also saves you from the terrible attempts to obtain any administrative services in person at special institutions. You can use online translation tools while performing tasks, which will greatly simplify obtaining the service.

You will need health insurance to safely move and find employment in a new country. You can issue an extended policy on our website using the link.

How to get a digital certificate in Spain? A detailed guide

Step 1 – Check if you are eligible to obtain a digital certificate in Spain.

To obtain a digital certificate in Spain, you must provide:

- A valid NIE (Foreigner Identification Number or Número de Identidad de Extranjero).

- A valid passport or identity card.

Step 2 – Install the necessary software on your computer.

Visit the FNMT website and download the specific software for certificates.

Important! Make sure you use the same computer for the entire process of obtaining the digital certificate, as you will need to install the certificate on this device. This is important as it ensures compatibility with the online application process.

Step 3 – Complete the online application.

On the FNMT website, click on “Obtain/Renew your Digital Certificate”.

Fill in your details, including your NIE and email address. You will receive a code for in-person verification at your local tax office.

If you enter any information incorrectly, you may need to go through the entire process again. Common mistakes include incorrect NIE numbers or incorrect passport details, so double-check your application before submitting to save yourself unnecessary hassle.

Important! Many expats have reported problems installing the FNMT software. If you are using a Mac, we recommend using the Safari browser; for Windows, try Internet Explorer. Additionally, make sure that all pop-up blockers are disabled.

Step 4 – Verify your identity at an FNMT-approved office.

You can usually bring your ID and verification code to the Agencia Tributaria or your local town hall (ayuntamiento). Appointments are required in advance, as the offices usually have limited space. You can make an appointment with the Agencia Tributaria online by visiting their website.

Be prepared for possible language barriers during your visit – you may find it helpful to bring a Spanish-speaking friend with you to make sure everything goes smoothly.

Step 5 – Download the digital certificate.

After verification, you will receive an email with instructions on how to download the digital certificate – it is important that you do this on the same computer you used to download the software.

How long is a digital certificate valid in Spain?

Digital certificates in Spain expire after a set period, usually four years. Renewal is easy, but you will need to prove your identity in person again.

Can I use my digital certificate on multiple devices?

No, digital certificates are tied to the computer used for installation. If you need access on another device, you will need to transfer it or apply for a new digital certificate.

You can find out more about how to transfer your certificate on the Agencia Tributaria website.

At first glance, it may seem that obtaining a digital certificate in Spain is very difficult, but if you plan everything carefully, it will be very easy for you to access key services online without unnecessary trips to local offices. A digital certificate can save you a lot of time while living in Spain.

Let's remind you! Regardless of whether you plan to start your own company or work as a freelancer, in order to legally register in Spain you need to obtain Autonomo status. We have already told you what the advantage of this status is and how freelancers and self-employed people can register in Spain in 2025.

Igor Usyk - Head of Legal Department at Visit World

To ensure a safe move to Spain, I advise you to contact a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration abroad.

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