How to Get your digital certificate in spain
How to Get Your Digital Certificate in Spain – A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re living in Spain or planning to stay long-term, getting your Digital Certificate (Certificado Digital) is a game-changer. It’s your secure electronic ID and allows you to manage endless official processes online – from tax declarations and Social Security to checking your work history, pension or registering as autónomo (I don’t recommend trying to do all of these by yourself, however!).
You’ll be able to download it directly onto your computer, phone or tablet and even share it securely with someone representing you (like your gestor/accountant).
First things first: You must have a NIE (Foreign Identification Number) before applying.
Option 1: Check with your local Ayuntamiento
Some town halls (Ayuntamientos) offer a Digital Certificate service directly. This is by far the easiest route.
Here’s how it usually works:
- You book an appointment.
- You attend in person with your ID and your smartphone.
- They submit the application for you.
- You’ll receive an email with instructions to download the certificate to your PC once you’re home.
✅ It’s usually done on the spot.
✅ Easy, fast, and low stress.
If your Ayuntamiento doesn’t offer this service, don’t worry, here’s how to do it yourself.
Option 2: Apply via FNMT (Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre)
This is the standard route for getting your Certificado Digital from anywhere in Spain.
STEP 1: Download the Software
To apply, you’ll need to download and install a specific piece of software provided by FNMT. It ensures that your browser can securely manage the digital certificate process.
🔗 Download the right version here
Scroll to the bottom where it says “Área de Descarga de Configurador FNMT” in blue
Choose based on your system:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
The software will download to your computer. If you can’t see it, check your computers downloads for the file. Open it and follow the on-screen steps to install. Once installed, the software will activate automatically.
STEP 2: Request Your Certificate Online
- Head to the FNMT application page.
- Click on “Solicitar el Certificado“.
You’ll be taken to a form that asks for:
- Nº de documento de identificación: Your NIE.
- Primer apellido: Your first surname.
- Correo electrónico: Your email address (you’ll receive confirmation here).
Important: Do NOT click “Enviar petición” yet.
Instead:
- Click the link “He leído y acepto las condiciones de expedición del certificado”.
- Read and accept the terms and conditions.
- Then press “Enviar petición”.
A pop-up will appear (this is the software you installed). Choose “Abrir”.
You’ll be prompted to enter a password for your Digital Certificate. Choose one you’ll remember! You’ll need it again to install your certificate on other devices.
STEP 3: Verify Your Identity In Person
You’ll receive an email with:
- A confirmation link
- An application code
To complete the process, you now need to prove your identity in person.
You can do this at:
- FNMT offices
- AEAT (Tax Agency) offices
NOTE: You must book an appointment for AEAT
Find your nearest office here
Bring your NIE and passport to the appointment.
STEP 4: Download & Install Your Certificate
Once your identity is verified, you’ll get another email with:
- A new link
- The same application code
Click the link, enter your NIE, surname and code.
Accept the privacy policy again and press “Instalar Certificado”.
NOTE: Make sure in the installation prcoess you definitely select “mark private key as exportable” if you need to share your certificate with a gestor or other devices.
This will download the certificate directly into your browser.
Done! You’re now officially certified and can start managing your admin online.
STEP 5: Install Your Certificate on Other Devices (Optional)
Want to use your certificate on your phone, tablet or another laptop?
Here’s how:
- Open your browser on the device where your certificate is installed.
- Go to settings > “Certificates” section.
- Export the certificate with a password.
- Send it securely (via email or USB) to your other device.
- Install it by entering your password again.
You’ll now be able to use your certificate across multiple devices securely.
Renewal Info:
Your certificate is valid for 4 years.
- First renewal? You can do it online within 60 days of expiration.
- After your first renewal, future renewals will require in-person identity verification again.
Final Tips:
- Use Google Chrome or Firefox – Safari and Edge don’t always play nice with FNMT.
- Keep your password safe – you’ll need it to install or transfer the certificate.
- If something isn’t working, try switching browsers or clearing cache.
