Back

Antecedentes penales españoles, Spanish criminal-record certificate

Online verified

Certificado de antecedentes penales — España

Who needs it

Foreigners renewing or modifying their residence permit, applying for nationality, or for certain professions and licenses.

When needed

For renewal or modification of a permit, naturalization, or when an employer or institution specifically requests it.

Where to get it

Ministerio de Justicia, online with certificado digital, or in person at the Gerencia Territorial.

Timeline

3 to 10 working days.

Faster with Key4Spain

Cita previa

Yes, for in-person filing.

What to bring

  • •NIE / TIE
  • •Paid Modelo 790 fee
  • •Power of attorney if filed by a third party

Common mistakes

  • âš Confusing the Spanish certificate with the foreign apostilled one (the latter is used for incoming visa procedures)
  • âš Requesting it without paying the fee
  • âš Assuming it is valid indefinitely, usually 3 months

What to say at the counter

I need the certificate of antecedentes penales issued by the Spanish Ministry of Justice. (Necesito el certificado de antecedentes penales emitido por el Ministerio de Justicia de España.)

Official source
Key4Spain service

Handling this via Key4Spain ensures 0% margin for error.