What is SPID in Italy?

SPID (Sistema Pubblico di Identità Digitale) is Italy’s Public Digital Identity System. It allows users to access public and private online services with a single set of credentials.

SPID is required to access many online services in Italy, including tax payments, healthcare, university applications, and municipal services. It ensures secure and legally valid identification.

To get SPID, you must register with an authorized provider, submit valid ID and codice fiscale, and complete verification online or in person. Once approved, you receive credentials to access services.

Some providers issue SPID for free, while others may charge a small fee depending on the level of service and verification method.

What is SPID and How to Get It

Infographic with text that SPID and the Italian flag

SPID (Sistema Pubblico di Identità Digitale) is Italy’s Public Digital Identity System. Introduced in 2016, it has quickly become an essential tool for residents and foreign citizens dealing with Italian public administration online. With SPID, you can securely access a wide range of services, from paying taxes and booking healthcare appointments to managing university applications and even applying for citizenship.

For an overview of the bureaucracy landscape, see: Italian Bureaucracy and Everyday Life: A Guide for Foreigners.

What is SPID?

SPID is a system that provides every user with a single set of digital credentials (username and password) recognized across all Italian public and many private digital platforms. Instead of creating separate accounts for each service, you log in with your SPID.

It’s similar to a digital passport: it confirms who you are and makes your online interactions legally valid.

Why You Need SPID

SPID is now mandatory for most online services in Italy, especially those provided by public institutions. Examples include:

• Tax payments and declarations through Agenzia delle Entrate.

• Healthcare access, including booking appointments via CUP offices.

• Municipal services, like requesting certificates or enrolling children in school.

• University applications and scholarships.

• Inps services, including pension management.

Without SPID, you may find yourself locked out of essential online services.

How to Get SPID

Getting SPID is relatively straightforward, but requires a few steps:

1. Choose a provider (Identity Provider)

• Several certified companies issue SPID credentials (e.g. Poste Italiane, TIM, Aruba, Namirial).

• Some offer it for free, others charge a small fee depending on the level of service.

2. Prepare your documents

• Valid ID (Carta d’Identità, CIE, or passport).

• Codice fiscale.

• Email address and mobile phone number.

3. Register online with the provider

• Fill in your details and upload documents.

4. Complete verification

• Can be done in person at a post office, via webcam, or through electronic ID cards (CIE or CNS).

5. Receive your credentials

• Once verified, you’ll receive your SPID username and password. Some providers also require a smartphone app for two-factor authentication.

Levels of SPID

SPID has three levels of security:

• Level 1: Username + password.

• Level 2: Username + password + temporary code (SMS or app).

• Level 3: Requires smart cards or advanced electronic devices (rarely used by individuals).

For everyday services, Level 2 is the standard.

Conclusion

SPID has become the digital key to Italy’s public services. Whether you need to pay taxes, access healthcare, or apply for citizenship, SPID credentials are now essential. Setting it up takes a little paperwork, but once done, it will save you countless hours of bureaucracy.

👉 Related reading: What is PagoPA and How to Use it.