You have walked the minimum 100 km to Santiago de Compostela, and your Pilgrim’s Passport (Credencial in Spanish) has been stamped along the way. All you have left is to collect your Compostela to share with the world your accomplishment. In the past, you would have patiently waited in line until it was your turn. Now, with the new system, it is easier, safer and more convenient to request your Compostela.
Request your Compostela – The New Way
The Pilgrim’s Office has now implemented an online reservation form that you can fill out up to 3 weeks before you begin your walk to request both the Compostela and Distance Certificate. Once you submit the form, a QR Code (only for office use) and a Group Number will be generated (in the example below, the number is: 2009WNAB)
Please note that all text is in Spanish.
The Pilgrim’s Office will then send you a locator number via email. This locator number will help expedite your Compostela and Distance Certificate. While this reservation form is OPTIONAL, it is strongly recommended by the Pilgrim’s Office as it will help speed up the certificate request process and enhance the health and safety measures that are now in place.
Unfortunately, although the form is available in English (click on the Union Jack flag), there are several dropdown menus that have not been translated and may require some guessing or translating (Eg. for nationality, the United States is Estados Unidos). Likewise, the general form heading will (incorrectly) state Create a Group.
- Upon arrival to Santiago, head to the Pilgrim’s Reception Office.
2. Collect a ticket number from the machine. There is always a helpful security guard there. Your ticket comes with a QR code that can be scanned / read by your phone and which you will use to verify the status of the line in real time.
IMPORTANT: Numbers are given out individually – ONLY one per person which is valid for one Compostela. You will not be allowed to take more than one ticket number
3. When your turn comes up, present yourself in the line (ground floor). Have your stamped Pilgrim Passport and a form of personal ID (passport or driver’s license) on hand to expedite the process. You should also present your locator number at this time if you have submitted the online reservation form.
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While you wait there is a designated waiting room downstairs that is equipped with seating areas, charging stations, Wi-Fi and vending machines.
Alternatively, if you prefer to wander around while you wait, use your QR code to monitor your status and return when your number is close (there are a couple of wonderful cafés right by the Pilgrim’s Office). You will need internet access or a data plan on your phone to read the code.
Follow the Pilgrim’s Office Facebook Page for the most up-to-date news and changes in policies regarding visits, opening hours and awarding of the Compostela.
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DETAILS:
Pilgrim’s Reception Office : https://oficinadelperegrino.com/en/
Rua Carretas, 33, 15705 Santiago de Compostela
Hours of Operation:
November 1st to Easter: daily from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.*
Easter to October 31st: daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.*
Closed: December 25 and January 1
* Closing time may be advanced up to 60 minutes earlier according to the number of pilgrims.
