From July 16, thousands of unemployed people in Spain can access more SEPE services online and by phone after a regulatory change removed the digital certificate requirement for many procedures. Published in Spain’s Official State Gazette, the new rules offer more flexible ways to identify people seeking unemployment benefits or subsidies. SEPE, Spain’s national public employment service, handles unemployment-protection procedures through its electronic headquarters and benefits offices.
Until now, many SEPE procedures required a digital certificate, electronic DNI or Cl@ve system, tools some applicants find difficult to obtain or use. The latest resolution lets SEPE accept temporary codes sent to a registered mobile phone or email, along with personal references and other contrast data, making remote identity checks easier.
Expanded Identification Options
The regulation lists several approved identification systems. Alongside qualified electronic certificates, electronic DNI and Cl@ve, SEPE can now use single-use codes sent by SMS or email. Other options include secure verification codes, personal references and passwords. Biometric data may be introduced in the future. The method required will depend on the security level of each procedure, and some codes may work only for a limited time or a specific action.
Secure verification codes have narrower uses, mainly for submitting documents or responding to SEPE requests during ongoing procedures. They do not provide access to broader personal data in an applicant’s file.
What Can Be Done Online or by Phone?
SEPE will gradually announce which procedures support these new identification methods at its electronic headquarters. For now, applicants can submit applications and documents for unemployment protection without a digital certificate. Digital forms can include a validated phone number or email address for receiving a temporary code. Entering the code confirms the applicant’s identity and consent, and the system records this evidence in the administrative file.
For procedures by phone, applicants can provide a code sent to their registered mobile phone or email during the call. SEPE staff will verify it, then document the identification through a voice recording or a written note in the file.
Remote access adds to in-person assistance, it does not replace it. SEPE continues to offer appointments at benefits offices, where people can get help with unemployment-benefit matters.
Traditional Methods Remain Valid
Digital certificates, electronic DNI and Cl@ve remain valid, and some procedures still require them. SEPE may require higher-security identification for sensitive or high-risk cases. There, access using references or contrast data may be limited to information directly related to the specific process.
Biometric Identification: Not Yet Active
The regulation names biometric identification and a corporate mobile app as future options. Neither will be available until SEPE fully implements and certifies them. For now, applicants cannot use biometric data to request unemployment benefits or subsidies.
SEPE says the changes are intended to make unemployment support more accessible, especially for people who struggle with digital bureaucracy. Talent24h reports that the move reflects a broader effort in Spain to modernize public services and lower barriers for vulnerable groups.
