The SPID (Public Digital Identity System) allows you to access public administration portals and the online services of participating private individuals using a single username and password. This system greatly facilitates the management of credentials, avoiding having to memorize different passwords for each service
.
In 2024, the SPID will continue to be active, but a future transition to a unique digital identity at national level, managed by the state: the electronic identity card (CIE) is expected.
In this guide, we’ll see how to request the SPID, how it works and what’s new in 2024
.
Table of Contents:
What is the SPID?
The SPID is a digital authentication system that allows access with a single digital identity to the online services of the public administration, such as those of the INPS or the Revenue Agency, and to the services of individuals who join the system. It can be used from a smartphone, computer or tablet.
How do you request the SPID
To obtain the SPID, it is necessary to choose an identity provider (digital identity provider) from those accredited by AgID (Agency for Digital Italy). The registration process consists of three main steps
:
- Entering personal data: you must provide your personal information, such as name, surname and tax code.
- Creation of SPID credentials: the user chooses a username and password that will be used to access the services.
- Identity recognition: it is necessary to confirm your identity through different methods, such as the recognition of a person, remotely, or through the use of the electronic identity card (CIE), the national service card (CNS) or the digital signature.
Who can apply for the SPID?
All Italian citizens or those who are in possession of an Italian identity card and tax code can apply for the SPID, as long as they are of legal age. The service is also available to residents abroad.
Documents required to apply for the SPID
To apply for the SPID, you need the following documents:
- A valid email address.
- The cell phone number.
- A valid identification document, such as an electronic identity card, passport, or driver’s license.
- Health card with tax code.
Enabled identity providers
The operators enabled to release the SPID include:
- Aruba
- InfoCert
- Namirial
- Intesi Group
- Lepida
- ETNaid
- InfoCamera ID
- Poste Italiane
- Sielte
- Tim ID
- TeamSystem ID
These providers offer the registration service and may differ with regard to the methods of recognition and the costs of the service.
Recognition mode
The methods of recognition for the SPID request include:
- Person recognition: by going to the offices of digital identity managers or to affiliated bodies such as municipalities.
- Remote online recognition: via webcam or audio-video selfie, showing identity document and health card.
- Online recognition via app: using the electronic identity card (CIE) or the national service card (CNS).
- Digital signature: using a smart card reader and its PIN.
SPID security levels
The SPID provides three levels of security:
- First level: access to services through username and password.
- Second level: requires the use of a username, password and a temporary access code (OTP) generated by an app or sent via SMS.
- Third level: in addition to a username and password, it requires the use of a device that manages cryptographic keys, such as a smart card.
The level of security required depends on the type of service you want to access. For example, security level 2 or higher is required for INPS services
.
SPID release times
The time needed to obtain the SPID varies depending on the identity provider and the method of recognition chosen. Generally, the procedure may take 5 to 20 minutes.
How to choose a SPID provider
The choice of provider is free and can be made based on various criteria, such as costs, methods of recognition and the level of security required. It is advisable to choose the identity provider based on your needs, taking into account even if you plan to use the SPID from abroad
.
What is the SPID used for
The SPID is used to access a wide range of public administration services, such as:
- INPS services (request for a single check, pension management, unemployment claims).
- Revenue Agency services (consultation of the tax drawer, payment of taxes).
- Local services (request for certificates from the municipality, management of the health record, change of primary care physician).
The SPID is also necessary to participate in public competitions through the InPA recruitment portal.
SPID for companies
Even companies can obtain a version of the SPID called ‘EiDup’, intended for freelancers and businesses. This type of digital identity facilitates interactions with the public administration, for example for the management of penalty and tax payments.
The future of SPID: the electronic identity card (CIE)
The SPID has reached a high level of diffusion, but the government has expressed its intention to replace it with the electronic identity card (CIE). The goal is to create a unique digital identity at the national level, managed by the state. The transition from SPID to CIE is expected by 2024, with the introduction of the IT wallet digital identity
.
The SPID is an indispensable tool for accessing public administration services and private individuals who join the system. In 2024, it will continue to be used, but it is important to follow the developments related to the introduction of the CIE, which will progressively replace the SPID in
the coming years.
