Spanish Digital Certificate (FNMT) and Cl@ve Guide for Foreigners

Spanish bureaucracy is much easier once you can identify yourself online. For most foreigners, the two key tools are:

• FNMT certificate (strong digital certificate for many procedures)
• Cl@ve (state login system used across many administrations)

You usually want both.

FNMT vs Cl@ve: Which One First?

If you can only do one first, start with FNMT. It gives you broad access and can also help with later Cl@ve operations.

Then activate Cl@ve for services that prioritize mobile authentication or Cl@ve-specific flows.

Before You Start: Identity Data Must Match Exactly

Most failures come from data mismatch across systems:

• Name format differs from NIE/TIE records
• Passport/NIE support number entered incorrectly
• Old address or phone data in tax/admin records

Take 10 minutes to verify your details before starting either process.

FNMT Certificate: Practical 4-Step Flow

1. Prepare device/browser according to FNMT instructions.
2. Request code online and save it immediately.
3. Accredit identity (in-person route or available alternatives).
4. Download certificate from the same environment used during request.

After installation, export a secure backup copy.

Cl@ve Registration Options

Cl@ve currently supports multiple registration routes (internet and in-person variants, with basic or advanced levels).

Typical options include:

• Internet registration methods offered in Cl@ve channels
• Certificate/DNIe route for advanced level
• In-person office registration

Choose the route that matches your urgency and the level required for your target procedures.

Common Foreigner-Specific Issues

• NIE format entered with spaces/hyphens when portal expects none
• Using different passport document than one linked in registry
• Requesting certificate on one browser and downloading on another
• Phone number mismatch blocking Cl@ve completion

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

If something fails:

1. Recheck exact identity format (NIE, surname order, support numbers).
2. Clear browser state and retry from supported setup.
3. Confirm your data in relevant registry channels if mismatch persists.
4. Use in-person route when repeated online attempts fail.

What to Do This Week

1. Decide your first priority procedure that needs online ID.
2. Complete FNMT request and identity accreditation.
3. Install and test certificate on one government portal.
4. Register Cl@ve with the level your target procedures require.
5. Save credentials, backup files, and recovery notes in one secure place.

If you still need local registration first, use How to Get an Empadronamiento Appointment in Madrid and Barcelona (2026 Guide).