Digital Certificate (idCAT)

A digital certificate is a software application that you install on your computer, which verifies your identity online and allows you to perform various procedures with public administration without having to visit an office. For example, you can update your residency registration (empadronamiento), file your tax declaration, or request various certificates such as your employment history certificate (vida laboral). This certificate is generally issued by the Fábrica Nacional de Moneda y Timbre (FNMT), and in Barcelona, it is also issued at any Oficina de Atención Ciudadana (OAC), where it is known as the idCAT Certificate. Be aware that these certificates typically have an expiration date, so you must renew them periodically to avoid any disruption in your ability to access public services.