What is the Cl@ve PIN and Permanent Cl@ve?

Spain's dreaded "cita previa" appointment system

In recent years, Spanish bureaucracy has become more accessible, but it still requires a lot of paperwork and appointments (cita previa), which can be very time-consuming. This means that foreigners often have to go in person to the local office and wait for their turn to be seen, which can be frustrating especially if you are new to the country.

The government offers several digital options for completing the majority of official processes online, but they come with a few complexities. First up is the Cl@ve Pin and Permanent Cl@ve which allow users to complete a wide range of online processes, including filing tax returns and plenty more fiscal matters.

What is the Cl@ve PIN?

This system works with a username or ID code that you choose, and a PIN which is sent to your phone via SMS. This extra level of security is only available to you and not your friends or family, so it's safer than just using a single password which can be easily lost or forgotten.

What is the Permanent Cl@ve?

The "Cl@ve Permanente" is a more permanent option than the “Cl@ve Pin”, and it's a more long-lasting solution for users who do lots of official processes online often. It also comes with an extra level of security, as each PIN code only lasts for 10 minutes and is not shared.

The process of registration in the Cl@ve system is simple, and if you are not already registered in the system you can do it online through the app and request a letter of invitation to register, which will be sent to your tax address by post and will include a secure verification code. Once you have completed the registration, your device will be linked to your DNI/NIE and you'll be able to start using it.