OUR EXPERT

Written by

Brenda.L

After completing her higher education, Brenda joined AnchorLess in 2023. She is an expert on relocation issues in Europe.

WHY YOU CAN TRUST ANCHORLESS

+10,000

Expats guided

1150

reviews noted 4.9/5

Table of contents

What is a digital certificate in Spain (certificado digital)?
Why expats in Spain get a certificado digital early
Who can get a digital certificate in Spain?
How to apply for a digital certificate?
How to get the FNMT digital certificate in Spain step by step
FNMT video identification: cost, timing, and when it is worth it
How to get the digital certificate with DNIe (electronic DNI)?
Most common mistakes expats make
How long is the certificado digital valid, and how do you renew it?
Using your Spanish digital certificate on mobile, and on more than one device
Where AnchorLess fits in?

Digital Certificate

Spain FNMT

18/02/2026

How Do You Get a Digital Certificate in Spain?

If you are moving to Spain, the certificado digital is one of the fastest ways to stop doing paperwork in person. It is a digital ID that lives in your browser and lets you sign documents and access government services online. Spain’s Tax Agency describes it as a digital signature installed in the browser to guarantee your identity online and complete procedures on the Tax Agency site and other accepted portals.

Most expats get it through FNMT-RCM, the Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre, using a simple four-step process: configuration, online request with a request code, identity verification, then download and installation.

AnchorLess can guide you through the full Spain setup, including NIE support and a clean, consistent data checklist so your name and NIE match perfectly across the digital certificate application, the identity verification office, and the final download (that mismatch is one of the most common failure points). The certificate is still issued by FNMT, but the difference is having someone prevent the avoidable errors and delays.

What is a digital certificate in Spain (certificado digital)?

A digital certificate is an official electronic credential that lets you identify yourself online and sign documents electronically with legal validity when dealing with Spanish public administration and many connected services. FNMT’s citizen certificate is the best-known option for individuals.

Think of it as your secure digital ID for Spain. It is especially useful because many processes that would normally require a visit, an appointment, and printed paperwork can be handled online once you have it.

What is the FNMT digital certificate?

The same thing as the digital certificate.

The FNMT digital certificate is a citizen certificate (certificado de ciudadano, also called persona física) issued by FNMT-RCM that you install on your computer as a software certificate.

A practical detail that matters: FNMT requires you to generate cryptographic keys on your device before you can even complete the request. FNMT’s own software download page says key generation is mandatory and without it you cannot complete the application.

What is a digital certificate used for?

A digital certificate is used for digital identification and electronic signature. In plain terms, it lets you sign documents online with legal validity and access government services without going in person.

The Spanish Tax Agency explains that when you access a procedure that requires a certificate, a window appears so you can choose the correct certificate and continue. That is exactly how it feels in day to day life: you select your certificate, you authenticate, you submit.

For expats, the biggest wins are usually:

dealing with the tax office (Agencia Tributaria) online
managing social security and other admin portals
signing forms and authorisations digitally instead of printing and scanning

Why expats in Spain get a certificado digital early

Once you have it, you can log into key portals and manage common tasks like tax, Social Security procedures, and a wide range of admin requests online. FNMT highlights using the certificate to carry out secure procedures with public administration and private entities via the internet.

It is also one of the most practical “quality of life” upgrades for expats. It reduces time spent chasing appointments and makes it easier to keep your paperwork on track.

Who can get a digital certificate in Spain?

For most expats, the answer is simple: if you have a valid identification number and can prove your identity, you can usually apply.

Spain’s Tax Agency guidance for requesting an FNMT certificate explicitly references entering the holder’s **DNI or NIE** and the first surname as it appears on the identity document.

In practice, this commonly covers:

EU citizens living in Spain with NIE-related documentation
Non-EU residents with a TIE that includes NIE
Spanish citizens using DNI
Legal or company representatives using the appropriate representative certificates (different route and rules)

What documents are needed for a digital certificate?

The request step uses your DNI or NIE and your first surname exactly as shown in your identity document.

At the identity verification office, you bring the request code and the documentation required for the certificate type. Documentation depends on whether the certificate is for a natural person (persona física) or for a legal entity or representative.

In real expat terms, your core pack usually includes:

an identity document (identity card or passport or identity document)
your NIF/NIE details (often through NIE or residence documentation)
the request code you received by email
any extra documents the office asks for (some offices request appointment booking and specific originals)

FNMT also warns that in offices like the Tax Agency and Social Security, you often need an appointment, so it is worth checking before you show up.

If you want a smooth run, AnchorLess can provide you a digital certificate, without the burden of scheduling and visiting the offices.

How to apply for a digital certificate?

You apply online with FNMT, receive a request code by email, verify your identity, then download and install the certificate.

FNMT lays out a clear four-step application process for the certificate with in-person accreditation: configuration, online request, in-person identity accreditation, then download and installation.

Spain’s Tax Agency describes the same structure and adds a practical tip many people miss: they recommend you book the identity verification appointment first, then do the online request, so your request code does not sit idle while you search for a slot.

When you apply online, you complete the FNMT application form and receive a request code (código de solicitud) by email. FNMT explicitly states you receive that code in your email and you will need it both for identity verification and later to download the certificate

FNMT certificado digital: which method should you choose?

FNMT lists four methods: video identification, in-person accreditation, DNIe, and mobile device.

Here is a useful way to choose without overthinking it:

If you want the standard, widely used path, choose FNMT with in-person identity accreditation.
If you cannot find appointments or you live far from offices, consider FNMT video identification. The tradeoff is a small fee and the fact it is not always immediate because the video must be evaluated.
If you have a working DNIe (for Spaniards), a reader, and your PIN, the DNIe route can avoid travelling to a registration office. FNMT states you can obtain the citizen certificate with a valid DNIe and a DNIe reader without needing to go to a registration office.

How to get the FNMT digital certificate in Spain step by step

Step 1: Install FNMT software before you request anything

FNMT is very clear that you must generate keys on your device to request and obtain the certificate, and that without this software you cannot complete the request.

Do this before you start the application, not after. It prevents the classic “I requested a code but cannot proceed” situation.

Step 2: Request the certificate on FNMT and get your request code (código de solicitud)

Spain’s Tax Agency explains the request step in plain terms: go to FNMT, select “Solicitar Certificado,” and enter the DNI or NIE, first surname exactly as shown, and an email address where you will receive the request code.

This is where many expats slip up. Your surname formatting matters. If your passport has two surnames and you input only one, be consistent across every step.

Step 3: Verify your identity (acreditación de identidad)

For the standard method, you verify your identity at an authorised office. Some offices require cita previa, and the FNMT CERES manual explicitly notes that at AEAT offices, Social Security, and other offices, an appointment may be required, so you should check with the office.

Step 4: Download and install the certificate (usually about 1 hour after verification)

FNMT states that you can download and install the certificate approximately 1 hour after you have accredited your identity, using your request code.

Step 5: Export a backup copy (.pfx) and store it safely

After installation, export a password-protected backup so you can reinstall it if your computer changes, and so you can use it on other devices when needed.

This step also matters if you ever want a trusted professional to act on your behalf, but it has to be done securely.

Most important rule: same computer and same user

This rule causes the most restarts.

Spain’s Tax Agency states that for the certificate to download correctly, the process of obtaining and downloading must be done from the same device and with the same user.

That means:

do not request the code on one laptop and download on another
avoid switching user profiles
avoid “cleaning” your browser or reinstalling your system mid-process

If you only remember one thing from this guide, remember this.

How do I download the certificate after I apply?

You download it by re-entering your NIF or NIE, your first surname exactly as you used in the request, and the code sent to your email.

Can I download the certificate on a different computer?

In the standard flow, no. The Tax Agency states the obtainment and download must be done from the same device and with the same user.

How long does it take after identity verification?

FNMT states you can download and install the certificate approximately 1 hour after you accredited your identity, using your request code.

FNMT video identification: cost, timing, and when it is worth it

FNMT’s video identification service costs 2.99 euros plus taxes, and FNMT indicates the certificate itself has no cost.

Spain’s Tax Agency notes the process is not fully immediate because the identification video has to be evaluated by FNMT, and it also references the 2.99 euro cost plus taxes.

This option is often worth it when:

you cannot get appointments in your area
you are abroad and need a predictable path
you want to avoid travelling to an office

How to get the digital certificate with DNIe (electronic DNI)?

If you are Spanish and have a valid DNIe, FNMT explains that with a valid DNIe and a DNIe reader you can obtain the citizen certificate without travelling to a registration office.

Spain’s Tax Agency also describes the DNIe route as a supported way to obtain a personal or administrator-representative certificate through FNMT.

This route is great when your DNIe setup is already working. If you are starting from zero and do not have a reader or your PIN ready, the standard method is often faster in practice.

Most common mistakes expats make

Most failures happen for boring reasons, not complex ones:

1) Entering your surname differently across steps

The Tax Agency explicitly reminds you that downloading will ask again for NIF or NIE, first surname as indicated in the request, plus the code received by email.

2) Trying to download on a different computer

Again, same device and same user is mandatory in the standard flow.

3) Skipping the FNMT configurator and key generation step

FNMT says you must generate keys first, and without that software you cannot complete the request.

4) Waiting too long to book identity verification

Some offices require appointments. If you delay, your timeline stretches quickly.

How long is the certificado digital valid, and how do you renew it?

Spain’s Tax Agency states that the newer FNMT individual certificates have a validity period of 4 years, and renewal can be done electronically during the two months before expiry.

For renewal timing, both the Tax Agency and FNMT state the renewal request must be made during the 60 days before expiry and the certificate must still work.

Practical tip: renew early in that 60-day window, not on the last weekend, and keep your certificate working on the same machine where it is installed.

Using your Spanish digital certificate on mobile, and on more than one device

FNMT includes a mobile-device method as one of the ways to obtain the citizen certificate, and many people also export and install the certificate on additional devices after the initial setup.

The key is to treat the certificate file like a high-value credential. Export it with a strong password, store it encrypted, and only install it on devices you control.

Where AnchorLess fits in?

Most people do the digital certificate too late, after they are already stuck on a tax notice, a Social Security step, or a residency task. A smoother move usually looks like this:

First you get your NIE foundation right, because the certificate request and download steps rely on NIE and surname matching.

Then you hire and set up your digital certificate correctly the first time, especially the same-computer rule, so you do not restart.

AnchorLess can support your Spain move with:

NIE support and a clean document checklist, so your personal data is consistent everywhere
FNMT digital certificate issuance, choosing the best method for you and simplifying
Step-by-step support through request code, identity verification strategy, download, and backup export, so you can use it confidently across devices and with trusted professionals when appropriate

Key Takeaways

Getting a digital certificate in Spain looks technical at first, but it is really a structured checklist. If you follow that one golden rule and keep your NIF/NIE and surname perfectly consistent, you avoid the most common reason people have to restart.

If you want the smoothest path, treat it as part of your full Spain setup, not a last-minute admin fix. AnchorLess can help you align your NIE details, prepare the right documents, choose the best method, and guide you through download, installation, and secure backup so you can use your certificate confidently across devices and, if needed, with trusted professionals.

Share this article

Join a community of 10,000+ expats

Get the weekly tips, success stories, and step-by-step guides we share with our members to make their move a success.

I love AnchorLess! They have been fantastic for my move to Portugal with the NIF, checking account, lawyer and tax consultation. I will be happy with when this process is over, but at least the journey has been smoother with them.

Lisa D

From South Africa

Guilherme was the best! I had so many questions and moving parts and he was responsive, always professional, and went above and beyond to help me with everything! He is a PRO!!!!

Debra Savage

From The United States

Our readers also viewed

Spain ID

Spain ID Numbers

Foreigner ID Spain

Essential ID Spain

14/08/2025

Spain ID: NIE vs DNI vs NIF Explained & How to Get Them

Learn what “Spain ID” means, including NIE, DNI and NIF, who needs each, how they’re used for taxes,...

Brenda

Content Manager

NIE

TIE

19/11/2025

NIE Card vs TIE Card: Understanding the Main Differences in Spain

Explore the key differences between NIE and TIE cards in Spain for efficient residency management.

Brenda

Content Manager

More than a blog, an ecosystem

Webinars Hub

Join our free webinars and get concrete answers to your most pressing relocation questions.

Community

Connect with thousands of current and future expats. You're not alone on this journey.

Partners

Insurance, housing: we've hand-picked and vetted the best services, so you don't have to.

Start your new life in Europe

Turn relocation stress into success with AnchorLess.

Relocating to Europe made simple.

Start to relocate now

Talk to us for free

4.9/5 Excellent

AnchorLess is not a bank, accounting, tax, investment, or legal advisor. We serve as an intermediary, streamlining your access to accredited financial and legal professionals for your relocation in Europe.