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Chave Móvel Digital (Digital Mobile Key)

Activate the Chave Móvel Digital (CMD) to access all public services online. Replaces the citizen card with card reader on all government portals.

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What you need before you start

  • Valid Cartão de Cidadão (Citizen Card, with or without reader)
  • Portuguese mobile phone number
  • Email address
  • NIF (Tax Identification Number)

Step by step

  1. Go to www.autenticacao.gov.pt

  2. Click 'Ativar Chave Móvel Digital' (Activate Digital Mobile Key)

  3. Choose the method: online (Autenticação.gov app), video call or in person

  4. If online: install the Autenticação.gov app and follow the facial verification instructions

  5. Enter your mobile phone number and email to receive the activation code

  6. Set a 4-digit PIN for CMD

  7. CMD is now active — you can use it on all government portals

  8. To use: enter NIF + CMD PIN + SMS code received

Tip: If in doubt, always contact the official service directly.

Editorial review

Useful context before opening the official portal

This section highlights the practical details that usually cause mistakes or delays. For the final decision, always confirm the official source.

Last reviewed: March 28, 2026

Official sources checked
Typical processing time

In-person or video activation can often be completed the same day. Activation by letter depends on postal delivery times.

Costs and official fees

Activating CMD usually has no direct fee. The practical cost is the time spent visiting an office or waiting for the activation letter.

Mistakes worth avoiding
  • Using a mobile number that no longer receives the security codes.
  • Trying to sign in before checking that CMD activation is fully completed.
  • Losing the PINs or confusing the signature PIN with the login PIN.
Frequently asked questions

Can CMD replace portal passwords?

In many cases, yes. CMD lets you access multiple public and private services without keeping a separate password for each website.

Can I activate CMD without waiting for a letter?

Often yes. Depending on your identification method, you may be able to activate it in person or by video instead of waiting for postal delivery.

Help us keep this guide accurate

If you notice a change on the official portal, send us a correction so we can review this guide quickly. Chave Móvel Digital (Digital Mobile Key)

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