How to Access SPID: A Comprehensive Guide for Italian Citizens

SPID, the Sistema Pubblico di Identità Digitale (Public Digital Identity System), is your digital key to accessing a wide range of online services offered by the Italian Public Administration and participating private entities. It simplifies bureaucratic processes, allowing you to manage taxes, healthcare, social security, and much more from the comfort of your home. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of obtaining and using your SPID, step by step.

What is SPID and Why Do You Need It?

SPID provides a single digital identity (username and password) that you can use to access online services from various providers, eliminating the need to remember multiple credentials. Think of it as a universal login for Italian government websites. Here’s why you should get SPID:

• Simplified Access: Access numerous online services with a single set of credentials.
• Time-Saving: Avoid physical visits to government offices by managing your affairs online.
• Secure Authentication: SPID offers a secure and reliable way to verify your identity online.
• Convenience: Access services 24/7, from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Digital Transformation: SPID is a crucial component of Italy’s digital transformation, making it essential for participating in the modern digital landscape.

Eligibility Requirements

To obtain SPID, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Possess a valid Italian ID document (Carta d’Identità, Passaporto, or Patente).
• Have a valid Italian Tax Code (Codice Fiscale).
• Provide a valid email address and Italian mobile phone number.

Choosing a SPID Identity Provider (Gestore dell’Identità Digitale – IdP)

The first step is to choose a SPID Identity Provider (IdP). These are accredited companies authorized to issue and manage SPID identities. Several IdPs are available, each offering different features and levels of security. Some of the most popular IdPs include:

• Aruba ID: Known for its speed and ease of use.
• InfoCert ID: Offers various authentication methods, including smart cards.
• IntesaID: Provides strong security features and support for professional users.
• Lepida ID: Primarily used in the Emilia-Romagna region but available nationwide.
• Namirial ID: Offers a user-friendly interface and competitive pricing.
• PosteID: Offered by Poste Italiane, widely accessible and convenient.
• Register.it ID: Provides a range of digital identity solutions.
• SPIDItalia (TIM): Offered by TIM, one of Italy’s largest telecommunications companies.

Consider the following factors when choosing an IdP:

• Authentication Levels: SPID offers three levels of security (Livello 1, Livello 2, and Livello 3). Most services require Livello 2. Ensure the IdP offers the level you need.
• Ease of Use: Some IdPs have more user-friendly interfaces than others.
• Verification Methods: IdPs offer different verification methods, such as video identification or in-person validation at a physical location. Choose the method that is most convenient for you.
• Cost: Most IdPs offer SPID for free, but some may charge for additional features or support.
• Customer Support: Consider the availability and quality of customer support.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining SPID

Here’s a detailed guide to obtaining SPID. We’ll use PosteID as an example due to its widespread accessibility, but the general process is similar for all IdPs.

Step 1: Choose PosteID as Your Provider and Visit the Website

Go to the PosteID website: https://posteid.poste.it/

Click on the “Richiedi SPID” (Request SPID) button.

Step 2: Create a Poste Italiane Account (if you don’t already have one)

If you don’t have a Poste Italiane account, you’ll need to create one. Click on the “Registrati” (Register) button.

Fill out the registration form with your personal information:

• Nome (First Name)
• Cognome (Last Name)
• Codice Fiscale (Tax Code)
• Indirizzo Email (Email Address)
• Numero di Telefono (Phone Number)
• Password (Password)

Accept the terms and conditions and click on the “Registrati” button. You’ll receive a confirmation email with a link to activate your account. Click on the link to activate your account.

If you already have a Poste Italiane account (e.g., for BancoPosta online banking), you can use those credentials to log in.

Step 3: Start the SPID Request Process

Log in to your Poste Italiane account on the PosteID website.

Click on the “Richiedi SPID” (Request SPID) button again.

You will be presented with the SPID request form. Carefully fill out the form with the required information.

Step 4: Provide Your Personal Information

You will need to provide the following personal information:

• Personal Details: Your first name, last name, date of birth, place of birth, and gender.
• Contact Information: Your email address and mobile phone number. Make sure these are active and accessible, as you’ll receive verification codes.
• Address: Your current residential address.
• Identification Document Details:
  • Select the type of ID document you will use (Carta d’Identità, Passaporto, or Patente).
  • Enter the document number, issuing authority, and expiration date.
  • You will likely need to upload a clear scan or photo of both sides of your ID document. Make sure the image is well-lit and legible.
• Tax Code (Codice Fiscale): Enter your 16-character Italian Tax Code.

Double-check all the information you’ve entered to ensure accuracy. Incorrect information can delay or invalidate your SPID request.

Step 5: Choose a Verification Method

PosteID offers several verification methods to confirm your identity. Choose the one that is most convenient for you:

• Online via Webcam (Riconoscimento da Remoto): This method involves a video call with a Poste Italiane operator who will verify your identity by comparing your face to your ID document. You will need a webcam and a stable internet connection. This method often has a small fee associated with it.
• At a Poste Italiane Office (Ufficio Postale): You can schedule an appointment to verify your identity in person at a Poste Italiane office. This method is usually free of charge.
• With a Carta Nazionale dei Servizi (CNS) or Tessera Sanitaria with CNS: If you have a CNS or a Tessera Sanitaria with CNS activated, you can use it to verify your identity online using a card reader.
• With a Poste Italiane Digital Signature (Firma Digitale): If you have a Poste Italiane digital signature, you can use it to verify your identity online.

Verification via Webcam (Example):

1. Select the “Riconoscimento da Remoto” option.
2. Follow the instructions to schedule a video call.
3. During the video call, the operator will ask you to show your ID document and answer some questions to verify your identity.
4. Make sure you are in a well-lit and quiet environment for the video call.

Step 6: Complete the Verification Process

Follow the instructions provided by PosteID to complete the verification process based on the method you selected.

Verification at a Poste Italiane Office (Example):

1. Select the “Ufficio Postale” option.
2. Choose a convenient Poste Italiane office and schedule an appointment.
3. Bring your ID document and Tax Code to the appointment.
4. The Poste Italiane employee will verify your identity.

Step 7: Set Your SPID Credentials

Once your identity has been verified, you will receive an email or SMS with instructions on how to set your SPID username and password.

• Choose a strong and unique password that you can easily remember.
• Your username will typically be your email address or a unique identifier assigned by PosteID.
• Keep your SPID credentials safe and do not share them with anyone.

Step 8: Activate Your SPID

After setting your credentials, you may need to activate your SPID account. Follow the instructions provided by PosteID to complete the activation process. This may involve clicking on a link in an email or entering a verification code sent to your mobile phone.

Using Your SPID

Now that you have your SPID, you can use it to access online services from participating public and private entities.

Accessing Online Services

1. Visit the website of the online service you want to access (e.g., the Agenzia delle Entrate website for tax-related services).
2. Look for the “Entra con SPID” (Enter with SPID) button or a similar option.
3. Click on the “Entra con SPID” button.
4. Select your SPID provider (e.g., PosteID) from the list.
5. You will be redirected to the SPID provider’s login page.
6. Enter your SPID username and password.
7. You may be prompted to enter a one-time password (OTP) sent to your mobile phone for added security (Livello 2 authentication).
8. Once authenticated, you will be redirected back to the online service, and you will be logged in.

SPID Levels of Security

SPID offers three levels of security, each providing different levels of assurance:

• Livello 1: Username and password. This level provides the lowest level of security and is suitable for accessing basic information.
• Livello 2: Username, password, and a one-time password (OTP) sent to your mobile phone. This level is required for most online services, including accessing sensitive personal data and performing transactions.
• Livello 3: Username, password, and a smart card or other physical device. This level provides the highest level of security and is typically used for accessing highly sensitive information or performing critical transactions.

Make sure your SPID provider offers the level of security required by the online service you want to access. Most services require at least Livello 2.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some common issues you may encounter when obtaining or using SPID and how to resolve them:

• Incorrect Information: Double-check all the information you enter during the registration process, especially your Tax Code and ID document details.
• Verification Problems: If you have trouble with the online verification process, try a different verification method or contact your SPID provider for assistance.
• Login Issues: Make sure you are entering your SPID username and password correctly. If you forget your password, use the password recovery option provided by your SPID provider.
• OTP Issues: If you are not receiving the one-time password (OTP) on your mobile phone, check your phone’s settings to ensure that you are not blocking messages from your SPID provider.
• Service Compatibility: Not all online services accept all SPID providers. If you are having trouble accessing a specific service, check the service’s documentation to see which SPID providers are supported.

Tips for Secure SPID Usage

To ensure the security of your SPID identity, follow these tips:

• Choose a Strong Password: Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Do Not Share Your Credentials: Never share your SPID username and password with anyone.
• Keep Your Software Updated: Keep your computer and mobile phone software up to date with the latest security patches.
• Be Aware of Phishing: Be cautious of emails or messages asking you to provide your SPID credentials. Always access the SPID login page directly through your SPID provider’s website.
• Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect that your SPID identity has been compromised, contact your SPID provider immediately.

Conclusion

Obtaining and using SPID is essential for accessing a wide range of online services in Italy. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily obtain your SPID and simplify your interactions with the Italian Public Administration. Remember to choose a reputable SPID provider, keep your credentials secure, and be aware of potential security threats.