How to Request Your INPS SPID: A Comprehensive Guide

In today’s digital age, having a secure and reliable digital identity is crucial for accessing online public services. In Italy, the Sistema Pubblico di Identità Digitale (SPID), or Public Digital Identity System, serves this purpose. One of the most important institutions requiring SPID for online access is the Istituto Nazionale della Previdenza Sociale (INPS), the Italian National Social Security Institute. Accessing your INPS account online allows you to manage your social security contributions, check your pension status, apply for benefits, and much more. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to request your INPS SPID, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.

Why You Need INPS SPID

Before delving into the process, it’s important to understand why obtaining an INPS SPID is essential. Having a SPID allows you to:

• Access INPS Online Services: Manage your contributions, access your pension statements, and apply for various social security benefits online.
• Simplify Bureaucracy: Avoid physical visits to INPS offices, saving you time and effort.
• Secure Transactions: Conduct your interactions with INPS securely, protecting your personal data.
• Access Other Public Services: SPID is not exclusive to INPS and can be used to access other Italian public administration websites.

What is SPID?

SPID is a unique digital identity, consisting of a username and password, which enables you to access online public services in Italy. It guarantees secure and protected access, simplifying the digital interaction between citizens and the Public Administration. It’s issued by certified identity providers (Identity Provider or IdP). The Italian Government doesn’t manage the identification process directly but licenses private companies to verify the user identification and handle security.

Who Can Request SPID?

SPID can be requested by any adult Italian citizen, regardless of their residency status (residing in Italy or abroad), and also by foreign citizens with a valid Italian ID and residency permit (permesso di soggiorno). It’s important to note that you must be at least 18 years old to request a SPID.

Types of SPID Levels

There are three levels of SPID security, each providing different levels of identity verification and security:

• Level 1: The most basic level, suitable for most online services.
• Level 2: Offers a higher level of security and may be required for certain sensitive online services.
• Level 3: The highest security level, typically needed for financial and judicial transactions.

For most INPS services, a Level 2 SPID is generally sufficient. However, it’s wise to check if the specific operation you intend to perform requires a specific security level beforehand.

Prerequisites for Requesting SPID

Before starting the SPID request process, ensure you have the following:

• Valid Italian ID Document: Either your identity card (Carta d’Identità), passport, or driving license.
• Italian Tax Code (Codice Fiscale): Your tax identification number.
• Email Address: A valid and active email address that you regularly access.
• Mobile Phone Number: A valid Italian or foreign phone number that you can use to receive SMS messages for authentication purposes.
• Computer or Smartphone with Internet Access: To complete the online application.

Step-by-Step Guide to Requesting INPS SPID

The process of requesting SPID usually involves the following stages:

1. Choose a SPID Identity Provider (IdP): Select a certified IdP. The official list of these providers can be found on the SPID website (www.spid.gov.it). Some of the most popular IdPs include:
   • Aruba PEC: A well-known provider offering different plans.
   • InfoCert: Another established company with various options.
   • IntesaID: Known for its user-friendly interfaces.
   • Lepida: A provider often preferred for its regional services.
   • Namirial: Offers both business and citizen services.
   • Register.it: Another common choice with different levels of service.
   • Sielte: A provider that’s been in the market for a long time.
   • TIM ID: Run by the telecom operator TIM.

   Each provider may offer different price plans, verification methods, and specific services. Compare their offerings and choose one that best suits your needs.

2. Visit the Chosen IdP’s Website: Go to the official website of the IdP you’ve selected and locate the section for SPID registration.
3. Start the Registration Process: Click on the option to begin registering for SPID.
4. Enter Your Personal Data: Fill out the online form with your required information, including:
   • Full Name
   • Date of Birth
   • Place of Birth
   • Tax Code (Codice Fiscale)
   • Email Address
   • Mobile Phone Number

   Make sure to double-check all your details before submitting to avoid issues further on in the process.

5. Upload Required Documents: Most IdPs will require you to upload scans or photos of your identification documents, typically:
   • A scan/photo of your identity card (Carta d’Identità), passport, or driving license.
   • A scan/photo of your Italian tax code (Codice Fiscale) card or certificate.

   Ensure that the scans/photos are clear and readable. Make sure the entire document is visible, and that the image is not blurry or cut off.

6. Select a Verification Method: Each IdP offers different methods for verifying your identity. Here are some common ones:
   • Via Webcam: You will be asked to connect to a video call with an operator who will verify your identity by comparing you to your ID document.
   • Via CIE/CNS: If you possess a Carta d’Identità Elettronica (Electronic Identity Card) or a Carta Nazionale dei Servizi (National Service Card), you can use those to verify your identity via a specific reader.
   • Via Bank Account Verification (Bonifico): You will make a small bank transfer from your Italian bank account which the IdP will use to verify your identity. This usually requires a bank account in the applicant’s name.
   • Via Registered Mail (Posta Raccomandata): You may have to send a registered letter containing a copy of your ID, and this may cause some delays. This method is usually more time-consuming.
   • In-Person Verification: Some IdPs offer the option of visiting one of their affiliated offices or shops for in-person identity verification.
   • Via Video Recording: You record yourself following some on-screen instructions, and the IdP staff will verify the video.

   Choose the method that is most convenient for you. Some may be free, while others may incur a fee. Note that the available method may depend on the chosen IdP.

7. Complete the Identity Verification: Follow the instructions of the method you selected. This is a crucial step, and you must be patient and cooperate with the identity verification process.
8. Create Your SPID Credentials: Once your identity is verified, the IdP will ask you to create your SPID username and password, usually via email or SMS instructions. Choose a strong password that’s not easily guessed, and make sure you can remember your username. Note that some IdP’s provide a one time password which can later be changed.
9. Activate Your SPID: Follow the activation instructions provided by your IdP.
10. Test Your SPID: After activation, log in using your SPID credentials on the INPS website (www.inps.it). If successful, you have successfully obtained your SPID and can use it to access INPS services.

Important Considerations When Choosing an IdP:

• Price: Some IdPs offer free SPID registration, while others charge a fee. Consider your budget and the included services before making your decision.
• Ease of Use: Look for an IdP with a user-friendly interface and clear instructions, especially if you’re not technically inclined.
• Customer Support: Check the IdP’s customer support channels and opening hours, as you may need assistance during the registration process.
• Verification Methods: Verify which verification methods are available and choose the option most suitable for you.
• Specific Features and Services: Some IdPs may offer additional services such as qualified electronic signatures or other useful functions, so consider your needs when making the decision.

Using Your SPID on the INPS Website

Once you have successfully obtained your SPID, you can use it to log in to the INPS website and access your personal data and manage all your INPS-related procedures.

1. Go to the INPS website (www.inps.it)
2. Click on the “MyINPS” button (or “Entra in MyINPS” if you have the site in Italian) typically found in the upper right of the page.
3. Select “Entra con SPID” (or “Enter with SPID” if you have the site in English).
4. Choose your IdP from the provided list.
5. You will be redirected to your IdP’s website where you need to enter your SPID username and password.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions, and if you have enabled two-factor authentication on the IdP, complete the second level of authentication as required.
7. If the login process is successful, you will be redirected to the INPS personal area from where you can access all available services.

Troubleshooting SPID Issues

If you encounter issues during the SPID request process, here are some troubleshooting steps:

• Double-check Your Data: Ensure all your information is correct, including your name, date of birth, tax code, email address, and phone number. Typos are a common cause of errors.
• Document Clarity: Make sure the uploaded documents are clear, complete, and readable. Blurry photos or scans might cause a failure in verification.
• Check Your Internet Connection: If you’re encountering connectivity issues, check your internet connection, and try again. A slow or unstable connection might interrupt the verification or registration processes.
• Contact Your IdP’s Support: If you encounter technical problems, contact the customer support of your chosen IdP for assistance. They can guide you through common issues and offer tailored help.
• Clear Browser Cache and Cookies: Sometimes, clearing your browser cache and cookies can resolve issues. Try clearing them and restarting your browser.
• Try a Different Browser or Device: If the issues persist, try using a different internet browser or device, such as a different computer or your smartphone.
• Verify SPID Activation: Make sure your SPID is fully activated by your IdP before attempting to log into INPS. Follow all the steps provided in their email or SMS.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the SPID request process:

Q: Can I obtain SPID from abroad?

A: Yes, you can request SPID from abroad, provided you have a valid Italian ID document, Italian tax code, and a mobile number that can receive SMS. You might need to choose a verification method that doesn’t require physical presence in Italy.

Q: How much does it cost to get SPID?

A: The cost varies depending on the IdP. Some providers offer a free basic SPID, while others charge an annual or a one-time fee. Verify the pricing policies of the different providers and their offered services.

Q: How long does it take to get SPID?

A: The time it takes to get SPID can vary. If your identity verification is successful on the first attempt and the verification method chosen is fast (such as via webcam), it can be done within hours, but sometimes it might take up to a few days. Verification via registered mail, obviously, takes longer.

Q: Can I use SPID for other online services besides INPS?

A: Yes, SPID is a single digital identity that can be used to access various public services in Italy, including the Agenzia delle Entrate, the National Health Service, and various other local and national administrations. The official list of providers can be found on the SPID website.

Q: What if I forget my SPID credentials?

A: Each IdP provides a password recovery process. You can typically reset your password using the email address or phone number you used during registration. If you lose your user ID, you’ll need to contact the support service of the specific IdP.

Conclusion

Requesting your INPS SPID is a crucial step in managing your social security matters online. By following this step-by-step guide, you can obtain your SPID efficiently and securely, making your interactions with INPS more convenient and faster. Always choose a reputable identity provider, verify all your details, and keep your SPID credentials safe. Having SPID not only allows access to INPS services but also simplifies your access to the whole range of Italian public services online.