How to Get a Digital Certificate in Spain: Guide for Foreigners

Last updated: 5 October 2026.

A digital certificate in Spain lets you identify yourself electronically and use administrative services that accept it. For foreign nationals, an FNMT personal certificate can be useful for tax paperwork, electronic submissions and other online procedures.

If you have an NIE, the key questions are which application route you can use, what documents establish your identity and how to download the certificate correctly. This guide explains the standard computer-based process with in-person identification, alongside the available mobile and DNI-based alternatives.

Who can obtain an FNMT digital certificate?

The FNMT personal certificate, also called the Certificado Electrónico de Ciudadano, is available to Spanish and foreign nationals who are adults or emancipated minors and hold a DNI or NIE.

You must complete the identity-verification requirements for your chosen route. Having an identification number alone does not complete the application.

If you are still arranging your Spanish identification documents, our NIE guide explains the number, its application routes and its distinction from a TIE.

Which application route can you use?

The FNMT’s personal certificate information describes several routes.

For a foreign applicant with an NIE who does not have a Spanish DNI, in-person identification is an available route. The steps below explain the computer-based version.

How to get a digital certificate with an NIE: step by step

1. Prepare your computer

Open the FNMT’s configuration instructions and install the Configurador FNMT-RCM for your operating system.

The FNMT currently lists recent versions of Firefox, Chrome, Edge, Opera and Safari as compatible browsers. Follow any additional instructions for your operating system, including the specific guidance for Macs with Apple silicon.

Complete the request and download using the same computer and operating-system user account. Avoid reformatting the computer between these stages.

Use a device and account you control and expect to retain access to throughout the process.

2. Request your application code

Go to the official FNMT certificate request page.

Enter the identification details and email address requested by the form. Check your NIE and surname carefully before submitting.

The process asks you to create a password. Keep it securely: you will need it during the download stage. The FNMT states that a forgotten application password cannot be recovered, so a new request would be necessary.

You will receive an application code by email. Keep the code available for identity verification and download.

3. Verify your identity at an authorised office

Check the FNMT’s identity-verification instructions and select an authorised registration office. Confirm whether an appointment is required.

Bring your application code and the applicable documents:

• Non-EU applicants: a valid passport together with an accepted foreign identification document showing the NIE, or an official document confirming assignment of the NIF/NIE.
• EU applicants: a valid passport or home-country identity document together with accepted NIE evidence, such as the EU registration certificate or official assignment document.

Check the official requirements for your documents before attending. Bring originals; officially certified copies are accepted in the circumstances described by the FNMT.

4. Download and install the certificate

Once your identity has been validated, return to the FNMT certificate download page.

Use the same computer and operating-system user account as for the request. Enter your identification details exactly as before, together with the application code and the password when requested.

Follow the installation prompts. Then check that the certificate appears in your browser or operating system’s personal certificate store.

5. Create a protected backup

Export a backup that includes the certificate’s private key, normally as a password-protected .p12 or .pfx file.

A .cer or .crt file containing only the public certificate is not a complete backup for identifying yourself or signing on another device.

Store the backup securely and keep its password safe. The certificate and its private key should remain under your control. The FNMT’s custody recommendations explain the holder’s responsibilities.

Can you obtain the certificate using a mobile phone?

Yes. The official FNMT mobile app supports requesting and downloading a personal certificate.

The available identification method matters. An applicant with an NIE can use the app with in-person identity verification. The app’s video-identification service currently requires a valid Spanish DNI.

If you already hold an FNMT personal certificate, check the instructions before requesting another. The FNMT warns that issuing a new certificate through the app automatically revokes the previous personal certificate. An existing certificate can instead be installed on another device using its backup.

How much does an FNMT digital certificate cost?

The FNMT personal certificate itself is free.

As checked on 5 October 2026, the FNMT video-identification service costs €2.99 plus taxes. This is a charge for the identification service.

Any separately contracted professional assistance has its own fees. Check the chosen route and current conditions before paying.

How long is the certificate valid?

Check the expiry date recorded in your own certificate.

The FNMT is transitioning its certificates to a new cryptographic system. Its current transition notice explains that newly issued certificates using RSA keys are being limited so their validity does not extend beyond 31 December 2028.

The FNMT’s current validity FAQ also lists that date for citizen certificates issued by AC FNMT Usuarios. The issuing authority and expiry date can be checked in the certificate details.

Plan renewal or replacement around the date shown in your certificate.

Common problems and what to check

For technical errors, use the FNMT’s official support instructions and provide the exact error message.

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply before receiving my TIE card?

The FNMT lists an official document confirming assignment of the NIF/NIE, together with a valid passport, among the accepted documents for foreign applicants. A physical TIE is therefore not the only possible evidence. Check your documents against the official list.

Can I verify my identity while outside Spain?

The FNMT identifies Spanish career consular offices abroad as an option for identity accreditation. Contact the relevant consulate to confirm its service, appointment arrangements and document requirements before making plans.

Is Cl@ve the same as an FNMT certificate?

No. Cl@ve is a separate system for electronic identification and access to participating public services. Registering for Cl@ve does not mean an FNMT certificate has been installed on your device. Check which identification and signature methods your particular procedure accepts.

Do I need my own certificate if a lawyer handles my application?

It depends on the procedure and how representation is established. Where authorised representation is permitted, a lawyer may be able to submit on your behalf.

Ask which steps you must complete personally. Establishing representation is separate from handing over your personal certificate and password. The general rules appear in Article 5 of Spain’s Administrative Procedure Act.

Legal review: Francisco Javier Theuer Carmona, immigration lawyer and member of the Granada Bar Association (ICAGR 7984).

Last reviewed: 5 October 2026

How Nodisea can help

If you are organising an immigration application, establish who will submit it, how representation will be documented and which steps require your participation.

Our immigration law services explain the procedures in which we assist. If you are moving to Spain for remote work, our Digital Nomad Visa service explains that application route.

Book a free immigration consultation to discuss your circumstances and the assistance you need.