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SPID: Italy's digital identity for foreigners

Quick answer

SPID is Italy's digital identity for logging into public services online (tax, health, social security). Foreigners can get one free from accredited providers like Poste ID or Aruba, several of which accept a foreign passport with remote video verification. You need a codice fiscale, an Italian mobile number and an ID document.

SPID (Sistema Pubblico di Identità Digitale) is Italy's single digital login for public services — tax, social security, health bookings, appointments and more. It increasingly replaces in-person queues, so getting one early saves a lot of time.

Why you need SPID

More and more Italian services are online-first and require SPID: the Agenzia delle Entrate, INPS (social security), regional health portals, and municipal booking systems. Without it you are often stuck with slower in-person channels.

How to get SPID

SPID is issued by accredited identity providers (such as Poste ID, Aruba, InfoCert and others). You register online, then verify your identity — by webcam video call, in person, or with a compatible electronic ID. Some providers explicitly support foreign passports and remote verification, which is the easiest route for newcomers.

You generally need a codice fiscale, an Italian mobile number, an email address, and a valid ID document. A few providers require an Italian ID card or residenza, so pick one that accepts a passport if you do not have those yet.

What you need

  • ✓Codice fiscale
  • ✓Italian mobile phone number
  • ✓Email address
  • ✓Valid ID document (passport accepted by some providers)

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Frequently asked questions

Can foreigners get SPID?+

Yes. Several accredited providers support foreign passports and remote video identification, so you can obtain SPID without an Italian ID card.

What do I need for SPID?+

Typically a codice fiscale, an Italian mobile number, an email address, and a valid ID document. Requirements vary slightly by provider.

Is SPID free?+

Basic personal SPID is free with most providers, though some offer paid fast-track identity verification.

Official sources

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Approdo provides information, not legal or tax advice. Requirements and figures change; always confirm with the official sources linked above.