Nowadays, carrying out administrative procedures or dealings with the public administration from anywhere is much simpler thanks to technology. However, to ensure maximum security and identification, it is It is essential to have a digital certificate on your Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO mobile phone.This electronic document is issued by the National Mint and Stamp Factory (FNMT) and will allow you to manage authorizations, view personal information, sign documents, and operate in numerous government electronic offices without having to travel or wait.
While installing digital certificates is a generally familiar task on computers, in the mobile environment, questions may arise or additional steps may be required. In this detailed guide, you'll learn more. How to request, download, install, and use the digital certificate on your Xiaomi, also learning to solve common problems and taking advantage of key tools such as the official FNMT app and the NFC system for the DNIe.
What is a digital certificate and why is it essential for your Xiaomi?
The digital certificate is an electronic document that digitally certifies the identity of the holder.It's the digital alternative to the traditional DNI, but with the ability to identify you online, sign electronically, and securely access electronic services with public administrations or private entities.
Its main functions include:
- Access and management of procedures in official bodies: income tax return, employment history consultation, filing appeals and complaints, obtaining certificates (registration, birth), applying for subsidies, renewing unemployment benefits, or accessing the DGT.
- Electronic signature of documents with legal validity.
- Personal identification on public and private platforms.
- Access to digital services from city councils, autonomous communities, and educational and healthcare entities.
Having your digital certificate on your Xiaomi mobile phone gives you time saving, flexibility and securityYou'll no longer have to travel in person or rely on a PC: you can manage your transactions in just a few minutes from anywhere, at any time. Plus, you'll be protected against identity theft or fraud, as Your certificate unequivocally confirms your identity.
This certificate is recognized in minutes, officially validated, and compatible with both computers and mobile phones and tablets. All you need is an internet connection and your Xiaomi phone.
How to request a digital certificate from your Xiaomi: Available methods
There are three main ways to apply for the digital certificate to finally install it on your Xiaomi:
- Traditional application through the FNMT website: It involves completing the process from a computer, going in person to an office authorized for identity verification, and then downloading the digital certificate to transfer it to your mobile phone.
- Direct application from your mobile phone using the official FNMT app: It allows you to validate your identity using your smartphone and the NFC chip on your electronic ID card, or via video identification (additional cost). Once completed, you'll receive the file to install on the same device.
- Other options via Cl@ve or similar tools: In certain organizations, it is possible to use the Cl@ve system or digital identification, although the digital certificate remains the most universal, secure, and widely accepted method.
Both alternatives are explained in detail below, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and resources.
1. Request a digital certificate through the official FNMT website (via computer or web browser)
- Access the official website of the FNMT from your computer (sede.fnmt.gob.es/certificados).
- Navigate to the section Individual > Obtain software certificate > Request certificateHere you must complete the required personal information: ID, first surname, and email address (the email address is key because it will contain the link to download the certificate).
- Confirm the request and wait for the request number to be received., which will arrive by email.
- Go in person to an identity verification office (AEAT offices, Social Security, town halls, government offices, etc.) by bringing your ID and the application number received by email. This step is mandatory for the Administration to validate your identity.
- After in-person validation, you will receive a email with a download link of the digital certificate in .p12 or .pfx format, protected by a password that you will define during the process.
- Save the downloaded digital certificate file in an easily accessible location, as you will need it to install it on your Xiaomi.
This method is the most traditional and is ideal if you need to use the certificate on both your mobile phone and computer. The standard format is compatible with all devices and browsers.
2. Request a digital certificate from your Xiaomi mobile phone using the official FNMT app.
Recently, the FNMT has allowed you to request a digital certificate directly from your Xiaomi mobile phone using two methods:
- Validation with the electronic DNI (DNIe) and the mobile phone's NFC chipThis is the simplest and most free option, although you'll need your e-ID PIN and a Xiaomi with NFC enabled.
- Validation by video identification (for a small fee). You can obtain the certificate without leaving your home or using the NFC chip, although there is a cost.
Step by step to obtain the certificate from the FNMT app:
- Download the "FNMT Digital Certificate" app from the Google Play Store and install it on your Xiaomi.
- Open the app and choose Request digital certificate.
- Select the desired method: DNIe Reading (NFC) o Video identification.
- Accept the terms and conditions and enter the email where you want to receive the certificate.
- If you opt for the DNIe, enter the CAN (number under the signature of the DNI) and the PIN obtained at a police station when renewing the DNI. Place your ID on the back of your phone until it connects and the data is read via NFC (make sure the NFC function is enabled in your Xiaomi settings).
- Complete the process and you will receive the digital certificate ready to download and install on the device itself.
With this option, you can avoid travel and in-person procedures by managing the entire process 100% online, from the comfort of your home.
How to install the digital certificate on your Xiaomi mobile step by step
The process of installing a digital certificate on a Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO device is very simple and only takes a few minutes. Each step is detailed below, including options based on the Android version, custom skin (MIUI, HyperOS), and file source (direct download, email, Google Drive, or other transfer methods).
previous preparations
- Make sure you have the digital certificate file in .p12 or .pfx format. If you downloaded it compressed (in .zip or .rar), unzip it before starting.
- The file may have arrived via email (download it from webmail to avoid problems), via Google Drive, Telegram, or directly from internal storage if you created it with the FNMT app.
- Remember the export or protection password that you set during the application, because it will be needed when installing the certificate.
Method 1: Direct installation from File Explorer
- Go to the folder where you saved the .p12 or .pfx file (usually Downloads).
- Tap the digital certificate file. Android will detect that it's a certificate and open the installer automatically.
- Enter the export password when prompted.
- Choose the “VPN and App User Certificate” (or similar) option.
- Give the certificate an identifying name.
- Confirm the installation. If this is your first time installing a certificate, you may be prompted to set up a screen lock method (PIN, pattern, fingerprint, etc.). Do this to ensure security.
Method 2: Installation from Xiaomi settings
- The exact location may vary depending on the version of MIUI, HyperOS, or Android, but the most common route is as follows:
- Opens Settings.
- Accede to Security (or search for “Security” in the top settings search bar).
- Sign in Encryption and credentials or in Credential storage.
- press Install from storage o Install certificate.
- Select the digital certificate file in .p12 or .pfx format from the path where it is stored.
- Enter the export password.
- Indicate the type of use: User Certificate, for VPN and applications or Wi-Fi (choose “user”).
- The system may ask you to choose a secure unlock method if you don't have one active.
In modern versions with the HyperOS layer, the path is usually: Settings > Fingerprints, face & screen lock > Privacy > More settings > Encryption & credentials > Install a certificate.
If you're having trouble installing, you can try restarting your phone, making sure the file isn't corrupted, downloading it again from your email, or performing the installation from an alternative source (such as Google Drive, Telegram, etc.).
Possible variants depending on the version of Android or Xiaomi
- On some models, the security menu may be located in Settings > Passwords & Security > Encryption & Credentials >> Install Certificate.
- If the file is on an SD card, use the “Install certificates from SD” option.
- In highly customized layers, always use the top search bar in Android settings to type "certificate," "credentials," or "install certificate," and the specific path for your model will appear.
Installing the root certificate on Xiaomi: why it's important and how to do it
Sometimes, some advanced procedures require, in addition to the personal digital certificate, to install the FNMT root certificate which guarantees the authenticity of the issuing authority. Although it is often pre-installed, it is advisable to verify and install it manually if necessary.
- Download the official FNMT root certificate from the website of the Government of Spain in this link.
- On the page, click “Advanced” and download the appropriate file for your case (the most common one for users is the first one on the list, .CER format).
- Once downloaded, open the file from the Xiaomi mobile's file explorer.
- The system will open the certificate installer; select the type as "CA Certificate" or "Root Authority."
- Give it an identifying name and confirm the installation.
- Verify correct installation by going to Settings > Security > View security certificates (or using the settings search).
This action ensures that systems and apps recognize certificates issued by the FNMT as legitimate, preventing errors on public administration websites.
How to use your digital certificate in official procedures and apps
Once the digital certificate is installed, your Xiaomi will be ready to identify you and electronically sign wherever you need. These are the most common ways to use it:
- Access to electronic offices of public bodies from the Chrome browser or from the corresponding administration app (DGT, Social Security, AEAT electronic headquarters, town councils, etc.).
- Use of official applications such as MyDGT (digital driving license, vehicle information), Citizen Folder (centralized consultations and procedures), app of the Social security, Among others.
- Signing electronic documents from compatible platforms (for example, to submit written submissions, allegations or formal requests).
The system will ask you to choose your digital user certificate whenever it is necessary to prove your identity., for example, to log in or sign a document. If you have multiple certificates installed, you can choose the correct one each time.
For your convenience, it's always a good idea to keep a backup copy of your .p12 or .pfx file in a secure, password-protected location.
Troubleshooting common issues when installing and using the digital certificate on Xiaomi
Although technology makes the process easier, setbacks can arise. Here are the most common problems and how to resolve them:
- The certificate is not recognized or the browser gives an error: Reinstall the certificate, check that it has not expired and that the installation path is correct (user, not Wi-Fi or CA).
- Error installing from email: Download the file from the web version of the email, not from the email app, to avoid file blocking or corruption issues.
- The mobile asks for a secure unlock method: Set up a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint before installing the certificate.
- The export password is not valid: Repeat the process from the beginning, making sure you remember the password you set during the application, or reissue it if you have lost it.
- The root certificate is not listed: Install it manually using the method detailed above.
- Incompatibilities with apps or electronic sites: Try updating your browser or app, clearing the cache, and if it persists, reinstall the certificate.
- Problems with Google Chrome or alternative browsers: Chrome is generally the most compatible browser. If you're experiencing persistent issues, try using the website in desktop mode or from another app.
If you're unable to get the certificate to work properly after several attempts, contact FNMT technical support, the corresponding administration, or visit official forums for personalized help.
How to delete or replace digital certificates on your Xiaomi
At some point, you may need to delete an expired certificate or replace it with an updated one. To do this:
- Go to Settings > Security > Encryption & Credentials > Credential Storage.
- Choose User credentials.
- Click on the certificate you want to delete and select Delete.
- If you want to delete all certificates, look for the option Delete all certificates in the corresponding menu.
Be careful not to delete certificates from the system (trusted or Google), as they are necessary for the normal operation of the device.
Benefits and extra possibilities of having a digital certificate on your Xiaomi mobile
- Digital processing without travel: from tax returns to fines, appeals, or medical consultations.
- Access to advanced apps and services: MiDGT, Citizen Folder, Health, Social Security, regional apps, registration or employment certificates, scholarship and grant management.
- Electronic signature of documents with national and international legal validity.
- Full compatibility with the most relevant state, regional, and local agencies.
- Maximum security: any transaction requires your explicit consent and, usually, your mobile PIN or biometrics.
Start taking advantage of all the benefits of your Xiaomi with the digital certificate, customizing your procedures and saving time and travel on everyday tasks.
The process for obtaining and installing your digital certificate on your Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO is accessible to any user, and by following the steps in this guide, you'll have access to all the digital procedures provided by the Spanish public administration. Always stay up-to-date, protect your .p12 file and password, and if you have any problems, consult official sources or technical support to resolve any issues.