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Carta Nazionale dei Servizi: Who Qualifies and What You Get

Learn how to use the Carta Nazionale dei Servizi to access digital government services and sign documents online.

The Carta Nazionale dei Servizi (CNS) is a physical smart card designed to help you navigate the digital landscape of government administration. This tool provides you with a secure digital identity to access various online platforms and the ability to provide a digital signature for official paperwork.

Who it's for

This scheme is available to all citizens who hold a health card (Tessera Sanitaria). If you already possess this health card, you are eligible to apply for the CNS to enhance your digital interactions with the state.

What you get

The primary benefit is a physical smart card that serves as a high-security key. Once you have the card, you can use it to access various government portals and official digital services. Additionally, it provides a way to use a digital signature, which allows you to sign and validate documents electronically, making many bureaucratic tasks possible from your own home.

What it costs you

There is no monetary cost to obtain this card, as the service is free. The card is issued by your local health authorities (ASL), which manage the distribution of health-related documentation and identity tools.

The catch to know

While the card itself is free, you must account for the technical requirements needed to use it. Because it is a physical smart card, you will need to own a physical card reader to connect it to your PC. You cannot use the card's digital functions on a computer without this specific piece of hardware.

How to apply

  1. Identify your local health authority (ASL) responsible for your area.
  2. Visit the local office to request the issuance of the card.
  3. Present your identification and your existing health card (Tessera Sanitaria) to the staff.
  4. Follow the specific administrative steps provided by the office to complete the process.