An online nationality application has three technical layers: identifying yourself to the service, signing the application and letting the computer perform that signature. Cl@ve, an electronic certificate and AutoFirma have related but different roles.
This guide prepares technical access. It does not determine who must sign or how legal representation should be evidenced.
1. Decide who files and signs
If you file for yourself, use only your own credentials. A legal or voluntary representative must enter and sign with their own electronic means and attach evidence of authority. Never request another person’s SMS codes, passwords or exportable certificate file.
2. Understand the access methods
Cl@ve is the shared identification system for Spanish public services. It has basic and advanced registration routes, and basic registration is not accepted by every service. A DNIe or electronic certificate identifies the holder through a cryptographic credential.
The application access screen offers Cl@ve Móvil and DNIe/electronic certificate. Test the chosen route before preparing the form, because registration options differ for DNI and NIE holders and by the security level required.
3. Prepare Cl@ve
Register through the official website or an authorised office. Link a personal phone to your DNI or NIE; Cl@ve permits one identity document per mobile number to protect the second factor. Keep the phone and email current and verify that messages arrive.
Do not assume basic registration is sufficient. Enter the real service and confirm access up to the step before the form without creating a draft you intend to abandon.
4. Prepare an electronic certificate
Use a qualified certificate accepted by the service and issued to the person signing. FNMT is one common personal-certificate provider; its process may include configuration, an online request, identity verification and download. For software certificates, follow its instructions about using the same computer, user and browser.
Check the holder’s name and NIE/NIF, expiry and revocation status. Keep an encrypted backup where the issuer permits one and protect its password.
5. Install and test AutoFirma
The Ministry’s current electronic office requires AutoFirma to complete an online residence filing. This does not mean every applicant must use it personally: a representative who files and signs uses their own electronic means. It is also not needed merely to prepare documents or form 790 or to make a simple informational case-status check. If you will sign, download only the official version for Windows, macOS or Linux and test it first.
Successful identification does not guarantee successful signing: the browser must be able to open AutoFirma and AutoFirma must see the correct certificate.
6. Run a complete rehearsal
On the computer and browser you will use:
- enter the service with the selected method;
- confirm the holder shown;
- test AutoFirma and certificate selection;
- check browser permissions and pop-up handling;
- keep a valid alternative method where possible.
Security, validity and differences
A certificate may expire or be revoked before filing, so validate it near the target date. Never send certificate files, passwords, PINs or one-time codes through messaging. Registration offices, remote methods and Cl@ve levels may vary; follow the current official route for your DNI or NIE.
Ready when
- the filer, signer and representation evidence are clear;
- Cl@ve or the certificate opens the real service;
- holder data matches the application;
- the certificate is valid and not revoked;
- AutoFirma opens from the browser and sees the correct credential;
- backups and passwords are protected;
- you know how to save the application and receipt after signing.
Next step
With access tested, follow the online nationality-by-residence filing guide.