January 8, 2018
As we saw in our post on applying for compulsory health insurance, public administration is simplifying its paper work by sending its users back to their computers. And there is little you can do without a piece of software which allows you to identify yourself in the digital space and to sign documents in your communications with Slovenian bureaucracy.
An application for a digital certificate (digitalno potrdilo) is done in person at the nearest administrative unit (upravna enota). In order to apply you need a valid ID, a completed application form, and most possibly your tax number too.
Then you go home and wait for the Ministry of Public Administration to issue a reference number and authorisation code, which will allow the installation of a digital certificate on your computer or other electronic device. The reference number will be send to your e-mail, and the authorisation code you will receive at your physical address along with the activation instructions.
However, these instructions and other relevant information in English can be found here.
A digital certificate stays valid for five years. In the last two months before the expiration deadline, it is possible to apply for a new certificate online, using the still valid old one.
