Criminal Record Checks

Anyone working with children and young people in Spain is required to have a certificate from the Spanish authorities which states that they have never been convicted of a sex-related crime (with adults or children). Foreign nationals, inlcuding EU nationals, are also required to have a similar certificate from their country of origin.

Certificates Issued by the Spanish Authorities – FAQ

There are three ways to apply for a Spanish certificate: in person, online or by post.

Where can I apply IN PERSON for the Certificate issued by the Spanish Authorities?

If you wish to apply for the Certificate issued by the Spanish Authorities in person, you’ll need to take all the relevant paperwork to the nearest Ministry of Justice Citizens Advice Bureau (Oficina de Atención al Ciudadano de la Gerencia Territorial del Ministerio de Justicia), a full list of which can be found here.

What paperwork will I need BEFORE I apply in person for the certificate issued by the Spanish authorities?

An application form completed by the applicant or his/her representative. Download the application form here.

A form completed by the applicant’s/applicants’ representative if a representative is going to make the application. This form can be downloaded here.

An authorisation form completed by the applicant if his/her application is being handled by a representaive. This form can be downloaded here.

Photocopy of the applicant’s DNI (national identity card for Spanish nationals) or NIE (identity number for foreign nationals living in Spain) and photocopy of his/her passport (in the case of foreign nationals), both stamped and certified as authentic copies (compulsada in Spanish) at the nearest central government office (subdelegación del gobierno in Spanish) or Town Hall (ayuntamiento in Spanish).

Applicants’ details in an Excel document (copied on a CD or pendrive) in the case of multiple applications being made by a third party. The Excel document can  be downloaded here.

Once I have the paperwork mentioned above, what are the steps I need to follow to apply in person for the certificate issued by the Spanish authorities?

You will need to visit your nearest Ministry of Justice Citizens Advice Bureau (Oficina de Atención al Ciudadano de la Gerencia Territorial del Ministerio de Justicia). Once your application has been dealt with, the certificate(s) will be sent to you/yuir representative by e-mail.

How much does it cost to apply for the certificate issued by the Spanish authorities?

There is no cost for the Spanish certificate.

Where can I get more information about the certificate issued by the Spanish Authorities?

Full details (in Spanish) can be found on the Spanish Ministry of Justice website.

How do I apply ONLINE for the certificate issued by the Spanish Authorities?

There are two ways to apply online for the certificates issued by the Spanish Authorities (with or withoiut digital signature). Click here and follow the instructions.

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