How To Apply For A Criminal Record Certificate In Spain
Expat Tips
Published: 14 August 2023 22:31 CET
Updated: 02 May 2025 21:04 CET
What is a Criminal Record Certificate in Spain?
Whether you’re applying for a non lucrative visa (NLV), renewing your residency card (T.I.E.), seeking certain jobs, or going through a legal process, you may be required to present a Criminal Record Certificate — known in Spanish as the Certificado de Antecedentes Penales.
This official document is issued by Spain’s Ministry of Justice and confirms whether or not you have any criminal convictions registered in the country. In 2025, the process is relatively straightforward and can be completed online, in person, or by post — but knowing which method to use and what’s required will save you time and frustration.
In this updated guide, we’ll explain:
- What the criminal record certificate is and when it’s needed
- The difference between general and sexual offence certificates
- How to apply online, by mail, or in person
- How much it costs
- How to cancel (clear) your criminal record
- Useful official links and supporting resources
What the Criminal Record Certificate Includes
This certificate is an official document that confirms whether an individual has any final criminal convictions on record within Spain. It is issued by the Central Registry of Convicts and managed by the Ministry of Justice.
- Only final convictions (those that can no longer be appealed) appear on this certificate.
- Minor infractions and misdemeanours do not appear — only true criminal convictions.
- The certificate can show additional info such as duration of the sentence, release status, or special liberty arrangements (if applicable).
When You Need a Criminal Record Certificate
- Applying for Spanish citizenship
- Residency or visa applications or renewals
- Certain types of employment
- Volunteering or working with government-funded programs
- Adopting a child or becoming a legal guardian
- Working with minors (requires an additional certificate)
If you will be working with children or vulnerable groups, this general certificate is not sufficient. You will also need a Certificate of Sexual Offences (Certificado de Delitos de Naturaleza Sexual).
Apply for a Certificate of Sexual Offences
How to Apply for a Criminal Record Certificate in Spain
- Online (fastest and most convenient)
- In person at a government office
- By postal mail
Online application (immediate download)
This is the quickest and easiest way to get your certificate — especially if you already have a digital ID.
Requirements:
- Visit the Ministry of Justice portal: Apply online here
- Authenticate with your digital ID
- Pay the fee using the Tax Agency’s payment gateway
- Download your certificate — usually immediate
In-person application
If you don’t have a digital ID, you can apply in person at any designated government office.
Current fee: €3.86 per certificate.
Search administration offices
Postal mail application
If you cannot apply online or in person, you may apply by post.
- Completed Form 790
- Photocopy of valid ID
- Payment receipt
- Return envelope
Official postal instructions
How to Cancel a Criminal Record in Spain
Criminal records in Spain are not permanent. If enough time has passed since your sentence ended — and you have not committed new offences — you may request that your record be erased.
- You have fully served your sentence
- You have met all civil liabilities
- You have no new offences
- for minor penalties
- for sentences under 1 year or negligent offences
- for other lesser penalties
- for serious offences
Use Form 790 to request cancellation.
Useful tips
- Request the correct certificate type
- Postal applications may take up to 10 days
- Keep payment proof
- Certificates for visas/nationality may need to be under 3 months old
- How to get your NIE number
Useful official links
Visa-compliant health insurance
If you need health insurance for visas, residency, or nationality procedures, see our no-copayment health insurance plans.
If you already live in Spain, check our affordable health insurance options.
