The Relationship Between Tax Code and SPID
The Tax Code and SPID (Public Digital Identity System) are closely linked in the Italian identification system. The Tax Code is one of the fundamental elements required to obtain the SPID digital identity.
This relationship makes sense: the Tax Code uniquely identifies each citizen in the Italian tax system, while SPID allows secure authentication in Public Administration online services using the Tax Code as an identifier.
Tax Code as Access Key
When you access a service with SPID, the system uses your Tax Code to retrieve all your data from the Tax Registry database and verify your identity.
It's important to note that to request SPID you need a definitive Tax Code (the 16-character alphanumeric one). Those with only a provisional Tax Code must first convert it to the definitive one.
What Is SPID
SPID is the Public Digital Identity System that allows Italian citizens and businesses to access online services of the Public Administration and participating private entities with a single digital identity.
Benefits of SPID
- Unified access: one credential for thousands of services
- Security: strong multi-factor authentication
- Convenience: 24/7 access from any device
- Time savings: no queues at offices
- Free: basic issuance is free
Who Can Request SPID
SPID can be requested by all adult Italian citizens who have:
- A valid Italian identity document
- Health card or Tax Code card
- A personal email address
- An Italian mobile phone number
How to Get SPID
Getting SPID is a simple process that can be completed entirely online or with a brief in-person verification, depending on the method chosen.
Main Steps
- Choose an Identity Provider: select one of the accredited identity managers
- Register on the site: enter your personal data and Tax Code
- Upload documents: ID document and health card
- Verify your identity: via webcam, in person or with CIE/CNS
- Create credentials: username and password for access
- Activate SPID: receive confirmation and start using it
Recognition Methods
- Online with CIE: if you have the Electronic ID Card
- Online with CNS: with active National Services Card
- Video call: with Identity Provider operator
- In person: at authorized offices
- Digital signature: if you already have digital signature
Required Documents for SPID
To request SPID you need to have certain fundamental documents that allow verification of your identity.
Mandatory Documents
- Valid identity document:
- Identity card (paper or electronic)
- Passport
- Driver's license (some providers only)
- Health Card or Tax Code:
- Health card with chip
- Tax Code card
- Tax Code assignment certificate from Revenue Agency
SPID Identity Providers
Identity Providers are digital identity managers accredited by AgID (Agency for Digital Italy) for issuing SPID.
Main Providers
Poste Italiane (PosteID)
Free, recognition at post office or online
Aruba
Free, online recognition with webcam
InfoCert
Various recognition options available
Namirial
Fast online recognition
SPID Security Levels
SPID provides three security levels, each suitable for different types of services and operations.
Level 1
Username and password. For low-risk services like viewing non-sensitive data.
Level 2
Username, password + OTP or app. For most PA services, including tax returns and health bookings.
Level 3
Credentials + physical device (smart card). For high-risk operations like qualified digital signature.
Services Accessible with SPID
With SPID you can access thousands of online services from the Public Administration and participating private entities.
PA Services
- INPS: pension, unemployment, bonuses, contribution statement
- Revenue Agency: tax returns, tax drawer
- INAIL: accident and occupational disease procedures
- Municipalities: registry certificates, tax payments
- Electronic Health Record: reports and clinical history
Common Problems with SPID and Tax Code
During SPID request or use, some problems related to the Tax Code may occur. Here are the most common ones and how to solve them.
Tax Code Not Matching Documents
If the personal data on the document differs from that in the Tax Code, the request is rejected. Solution: verify and correct any errors at the Registry or Revenue Agency.
Provisional Tax Code
It's not possible to request SPID with a provisional Tax Code (11 digits). You must first obtain the definitive 16-character Tax Code.
Verify Your Tax Code
Check that your Tax Code is correct before requesting SPID
Calculate and Verify Tax Code