SPID, the Sistema Pubblico di Identità Digitale (Public Digital Identity System), is an authentication system that allows Italian citizens to access numerous online services of public and private entities with a single username and password combination.
Intuitive and secure, SPID is now a key tool for simplifying access to digital public services, streamlining procedures and cutting red tape. With SPID, it is possible, for example, to consult personal documents, access one's tax and health data and manage administrative paperwork online.
Below we will examine in detail what SPID is, how it works and the steps to apply for it.
What is SPID
SPID, or Sistema Pubblico di Identità Digitale, is a system based on digital credentials (username and password) that identifies Italian citizens and allows them to access various online services of the public administration and private entities securely adhered.
With SPID, citizens can quickly carry out relevant transactions such as payments, consult health data, access the INPS portal, manage business files and apply for state bonuses.
SPID was created to promote the use of digital services, is free of charge and is managed by the Agenzia per l'Italia Digitale (AGID).
Who can apply for SPID
SPID is intended for citizens Italians of full age, including those resident abroad, who have a valid Italian identity document and a health card or tax code. Also the foreign nationals resident in Italy with a residence permit can request it.
How to obtain SPID
To obtain SPID, one can turn to a provider such as Register.it's SpidItalia, following a registration and identification procedure.
To apply for SPID, you need:
- An active email
- A telephone number
- A valid identity document
- The health card with tax code
Finally, SPID activation requires user recognition to confirm identity.
Recognition procedure for SPID
The recognition user is the last step in activating SPID and can take place in three ways:
– Webcam: via a video call with a Register.it operator, the user shows his/her identity documents to complete the verification.
– Digital signature: those with a digital signature can verify their identity automatically.
- CNS: through the National Services Card (CNS) with a smart card reader.
At Register.co.uk, webcam recognition is safe and easy: after purchasing the service, all you have to do is enter your data and make the appointment for the video call.
What SPID is for
SPID allows accessing public administration online services with a single username and password. On PA websites, there is a 'Log in with SPID' button to access specific services.
With SPID it is possible:
- Enrolling children in school
- Booking health visits
- Accessing the INPS and INAIL portals
- Registering rental contracts
- Filling in the 730 online
- Applying for state bonuses
- Paying taxes and health tickets
- Applying for family allowances
Today, SPID provides access to more than 5,300 digital services, with an updated list on the Spid.gov.it website.
Benefits of SPID
SPID works as a 'passkey' to access public online services with a single PIN, avoiding multiple credentials.
SPID is:
- Simple: a unique account with a password to remember.
- Secure: guarantees the protection of identity and data.
- Quick: usable on any device where 'log in with SPID' is present.
SPID authentication levels
SPID has three levels of security:
1. Level 1: access with username and password.
2. Level 2: adds a OTP code (one-time password) for added security.
3. Level 3: requires digital certificates for high protection.
Types of SPID credentials
SPID can be activated for private or professional use:
1. SPID credentials for private usefree of charge and issued with identification.
2. SPID credentials for professional use:
- SPID for natural persons without a VAT number.
- SPID for company representatives.
- SPID for freelancers and sole proprietorships.
For legal persons, SPID must be requested by the legal representative, who may also authorise others to act on behalf of the company.
