The Generalitat has implemented measures to facilitate the obtaining of idCAT Mòbil for Catalans residing abroad, in order to provide them with access to digital procedures: the verification code in the registration process for idCAT Mòbil can now be obtained via WhatsApp, in addition to the usual SMS.
The measure has been taken in response to restrictions by some telecommunications operators that limit the reception of SMS in areas such as the United States and the southern cone of America, which forced many Catalans to return to Catalonia to obtain the idCAT Mòbil, as reported by the Govern in a statement on Saturday.
IdCAT Mòbil is a tool for digital identification and signature that provides access to procedures from any device and is also a universal identification mechanism, as anyone can obtain it, whether with a DNI, NIE, or passport from any country, through a video identification system.
In this way, these citizens will be able to register in the Register of Catalans Abroad, apply for grants, and request documents such as the work history record from the Social Security and the criminal record certificate.
This new functionality has already been used by 20% of new registrations and, according to the Govern, will benefit around one and a half million Catalans living abroad.
DOS CONSELLERIAS Y LA AOC
It is a measure in collaboration between the Department of Presidency, the Department of EU and Foreign Action, and the Open Administration of Catalonia (AOC).
JAUME DUCH Y ALBERT TORT
The Minister of EU and Foreign Action, Jaume Duch, has emphasized the need to "guarantee rights for Catalans, so that they also have the same rights abroad as they do here."
The Secretary of Telecommunications and Digital Transformation, Albert Tort, has stressed that all measures aim to "reduce barriers, increase accessibility, and streamline people’s relationship with the Generalitat."
The Govern also announced in August the expansion of the digital services offer for Catalans abroad, with 20 new procedures available on the Catalonia Exterior website.