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How to obtain the criminal record certificate in Bilbao (2026)

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Cost

Free

Free (feeless process)

Time at office

Instantaneous (online with digital signature)

Estimated time

Instantaneous online / 3-5 days if requested by mail

Quick summary

Guide for requesting the criminal record certificate in Bilbao, Basque Country. Online process (instantaneous with digital signature) or in person. Usual requirements and common uses in 2026.

Required documents

  • Valid DNI, NIE or passport

    Identity document of the applicant. For online procedure, you need digital signature or Cl@ve.

  • ?

    Digital signature, eDNI or Cl@ve Optional

    Required for immediate online process. You can obtain Cl@ve PIN free of charge from the AEAT or Social Security website in 5 minutes.

    ⚠️ Only for telematic procedure (recommended)

0 €
Free (feeless process) €0.00
€0.00
€0.00

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Access the Ministry of Justice Online Portal

    Go to official site

    The fastest and recommended way is online. Go to the Ministry of Justice Online Portal and search for 'Criminal Record Certificate'. You need to authenticate using digital signature, eDNI or Cl@ve.

    !

    Expert tip

    "If you don't have a digital signature, you can get free Cl@ve PIN in 5 minutes from the AEAT or Social Security website. It's the simplest identification system."

  • 2

    Complete the online form

    Fill in your personal details (DNI/NIE, name, surname, date of birth) and the reason for requesting it. Common reasons include: employment, adoption, obtaining permits, visas or notarial procedures.

    !

    Expert tip

    "There is no need to justify the reason with documents. Just select it from the dropdown menu on the form."

  • 3

    Download the certificate immediately

    If the process is online, the certificate is generated instantly and can be downloaded in PDF format. This official document can be presented to public or private entities.

    !

    Expert tip

    "The online obtained certificate has the same validity as the physical one. It includes a secure verification code (CSV) that allows its authenticity to be checked online."

Offices and service points - Bilbao

Central Register of Convicts — Ministry of Justice (online)

Calle de la Bolsa, 8, 28012 Madrid (central headquarters, online service available for the whole Spain)

Online: 24 hours / Teléfono: Lunes a Viernes 09:00 - 18:00

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of the criminal record certificate?
It is commonly requested for: working with children (legally required), obtaining visas or residence permits abroad, participating in adoption processes, accessing certain public and private jobs, and notarial or registry procedures.
How long is the criminal record certificate valid?
There is no legal expiration date, but most institutions and companies accept it if issued within 3-6 months. For international visas and other foreign processes, they usually require it to be less than 3 months old.
What happens if I have cancelled convictions?
Convictions are automatically canceled after a legal period according to the crime (between 6 months and 30 years). Once canceled, they do not appear on standard certificates. You can request early cancellation if you meet the requirements.
Can someone else request it on my behalf?
Yes, with explicit authorization signed and accompanied by a copy of the applicant's DNI. It can also be done by a legally appointed representative (lawyer, procurator, notary agent).
Do I need a criminal record certificate to work with children?
Yes, it has been mandatory since 2015 (Organic Law 1/1996). Anyone working regularly with minors (teachers, monitors, sports trainers, volunteers) must present the negative record of sex-related offenses.

Trámites relacionados

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Official sources and useful links

This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.