How do you set up a Spanish digital certificate or Cl@ve in 2026?

The Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre (FNMT) issues the common software certificate for individuals. The durable sequence is: configure the browser or computer as FNMT instructs, request the certificate and receive a request code by email, then attend an Oficina de Acreditación de Identidad in person with that code. Correos offices are not the accreditation channel for this certificate.

Bring a valid passport (or EU national identity card where accepted) plus NIE evidence. FNMT accepts a TIE, EU registration certificate showing the NIE, or another official NIE assignment document alongside the passport. Non-EU residents usually show the plastic TIE or the official NIE grant papers FNMT lists. Download the certificate on the same device used for the request once accreditation clears.

Book the accreditation office with the locator FNMT publishes. AEAT and Social Security accreditation desks often need a prior appointment. Expect Spanish-language counters; prepare phrases or help before you go: Bureaucracy without Spanish.

Cl@ve is Spain’s shared login for many administrations. Registration routes include an electronic certificate or DNIe online, in-person offices, invitation letters, and video-identification paths that change over time. Foreigners without a Spanish DNI usually lean on the FNMT certificate route or a face-to-face Cl@ve office rather than assuming app-only video ID is open to every passport.

Once registered, Cl@ve Móvil or Cl@ve Permanente lets you enter Hacienda Renta WEB and many Social Security services. That matters when you file taxes or check contribution records. Keep a working Spanish mobile number for SMS codes: Get a mobile phone. Banks may still want branch KYC even when you already hold Cl@ve: Open a bank account.