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What Are The Pilgrim Passport, Credential And Compostela?

Created by Colleen | Updated : 27 January 2025 |

The Credential and Compostela are an integral part of walking the Camino de Santiago. But what exactly are they? What is their significance? Do they travel with you on your journey, and are there specific rules that you need to follow to receive them?

When I first walked the Camino, the Pilgrim’s Passport, another name for the Credential, and the Compostela were all completely new to me. Since then, I’ve learned their history, their purpose, and why they become an essential part of the journey to Santiago de Compostela.

Understanding how these documents work could mean the difference between receiving your Compostela or leaving empty-handed. If you get it wrong, you might not qualify for this incredible piece of history.

interior of Colleen's Pilgrim Passport, full of different sello from the places I stayed.

The Pilgrim Passport : Credential or Credencial Del Peregrino

Pilgrims often refer to the Pilgrim Passport, but the proper name is the Credential, or officially, the Credencial del Peregrino.

This small but vital document serves multiple purposes on the Camino: it’s a treasured keepsake, proof of your progress, and evidence that you’ve walked. Without it, you cannot access many pilgrim accommodations or be granted the Compostela at the end of your journey.

The History of the Credential

The Credential has its roots in the Middle Ages when pilgrims were issued letters of safe-conduct to introduce them to hospices and accommodations along the way.

In its modern form, the Credential we use today was created in 1987 during the First International Congress of Friends of the Camino de Santiago. Inspired by historical practices, it was adapted to meet the needs of contemporary pilgrims.

What Does The Credential Look Like?

The Credential is typically a folded booklet, about the size of an international passport, though some are styled like small books. The front cover often features symbols like the scallop shell or the Cross of St. James, while local pilgrim associations may customize designs to reflect their region. For instance, the Canadian Credential features a maple leaf, and the Celtic Credential is green.

Inside, you’ll find:

  • A section for personal details, including your name, ID number (e.g., passport), starting point, and mode of travel (on foot, by bike, or horseback). There is also space here for the stamp of the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, which seals, or closes the credential when you finish.
  • Blank pages for collecting sellos (stamps) from accommodations, churches, and cafés along the route.
  • A Pilgrim’s Blessing and Prayer, not always but in most some cases, such as those issued by the Cathedral of Santiago.

The Pilgrim’s Prayer 

St. James, Apostle, chosen among the first, you were the first to drink the cup of the Master and you are the great protector of pilgrims. Make us strong in faith and happy in hope on our pilgrim journey, following the path of Christian life, and sustain us so that we may finally reach the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Top Tip : if you plan to frame your credential I’d recommend getting a couple, and only using one side to collect your sello.  And make sure that you write in pencil a contact number, just on case you and your credential part company.

What Is The Purpose Of The Pilgrim Passport?

The term credential refers to a document or certificate that verifies a person’s qualifications, achievements, or authority. One the earliest recorded use in English was around 1433. It originates from the Medieval Latin crēdentiālis, meaning trust or belief; it is also the root of the English word credence.

The Credentials acts as proof that you have walked the Camino; as required by the Cathedral de Santiago.  Also, if you wish to stay in pilgrim accommodations such as hostels or albergue, you will need to present your credentials when you arrive.  

Where to Get Your Pilgrim Credential

You can purchase your credential online from various pilgrim associations.  You can also purchase them at the Pilgrim Office, and sometimes at a pilgrim hostel or even the local tourist office or cathedral.   Local chapters of Pilgrim Associations will also sell credential.

I prefer to purchase my Credential online before I leave home; I like to be sure that I have them before I start my journey.   I use Ivar’s store in Santiago.

Your Pilgrim Passport : Practical Tips

  • Purchase your Credential before you leave home to ensure you have it ready for your journey. Be sure to select an official Credential, as only these are accepted by the Pilgrim’s Office in Santiago.
  • If you plan to frame your Credential as a keepsake, consider purchasing an extra and only using one side of the credential for your sello.
  • Write your contact details (in pencil) inside, just in case you and your Credential part ways.
the Pilgrim Prayer on the rear of the Credential

What Is The Sello : Stamps For Your Credential

The sello, or stamp, is a unique mark, that you collect on your Credential (Pilgrim Passport) along the Camino de Santiago. Not only do these stamps serve as proof of your journey, but for many, they also become a treasured record of your travels and Camino experience.

Do You Really Need Two Stamps a Day?

Yes, you do! I often see pilgrims asking on forums if two sellos per day are truly required. The answer is a firm yes. Without them, you may not qualify for your Compostela at the end of your pilgrimage.

But I don’t see this as a chore. I love my Credential and the stamps I collect. It’s easy to find a sello; your accommodation, a bar or café, tourist offices, churches, council buildings, or even some shops will often have one. Very few pilgrims will go a day without passing somewhere they can stop for a stamp.

Even on routes where services are sparse, I’ve always managed to find my sello. And if you’re like me, you might collect more than the required two per day. Just make sure to date each one.

collecting a wax sello en route to Santiago

Important Rules for Sello Collection

To qualify for your Compostela:

  • You must collect at least two sellos per day as proof of your journey.
  • The stamps should reflect chronological and geographical order, showing your route clearly.

What If There’s No Sello?

Occasionally, you might find yourself in a situation where no sello is available; such as at accommodations with online check-ins. In these cases, I’ve drawn a small image or symbol, written the name of the hotel or hostel, and added the date. Because I collect plenty of stamps elsewhere during the day, this has never been questioned by the Pilgrim’s Office.

the Sello in Burgos

What Is The Compostela

The Compostela is an official accreditation of pilgrimage to the Tomb of St. James, issued by the Cathedral of Santiago. It serves as both a spiritual acknowledgment and a historical document, continuing a tradition that dates back to the early days of pilgrimage.

In the 9th century, pilgrims received scallop shells as proof of their journey. However, these were easily falsified, leading to decrees in the 13th century excommunicating those who created forgeries. We do know that by the 16th century, pilgrims were required to present a Compostela to receive hospitality.

Today, the Compostela is a beautifully written document in Latin, and it includes the pilgrim’s name (also written in Latin). It recognizes the journey’s spiritual intent and the effort made to visit the sacred Tomb of St. James.

In English it reads :

The Chapter of this Holy Apostolic and Metropolitan Cathedral of Compostela, custodian of the seal of the Altar of St. James, to all the Faithful and pilgrims who arrive from anywhere on the Orb of the Earth with an attitude of devotion or because of a vow or promise make a pilgrimage to the Tomb of the Apostle, Our Patron Saint and Protector of Spain, recognises before all who observe this document that (your name in Latin) has devotedly visited this most sacred temple having done the last hundred kilometers on foot or on horseback or the last two hundred by bicycle with Christian sentiment (pietatis causa).

In witness whereof I present this document endorsed with the seal of this same Holy Church.

Issued in Santiago de Compostela on (day) of (month) year of our Lord (year)

the compostela; I have many from different Camino

History Of The Compostela

From its earliest days there was a desire for the completion of a pilgrimage to be recognised in some way. In the 13th century evidence of pilgrimage records include evidential letters, precursors to the modern Compostela.  Interestingly, neither the Codex Calixtinus nor Domenico Laffi’s diaries mention the Compostela. 

The Compostela that we know today serves a more contemporary need, although the Camino de Santiago is not the only pilgrimage to offer a certificate of completion :

  • Hajj Certificates (11th century): Proof of pilgrimage to Mecca.
  • Testimonium: For pilgrims walking the Via Francigena to Rome.
  • Franciscan Pilgrim Certificate: Issued in Jerusalem for Holy Land pilgrimages.
  • Olav Letter: For completing the St. Olav Ways in Norway.

Qualification For The Compostela

The Compostela is the official certificate granted to pilgrims who complete the pilgrimage to the Tomb of St. James in Santiago de Compostela. To be eligible, pilgrims must

  • Undertake the pilgrimage for religious or spiritual reasons, or at least with an attitude of seeking.
  • Complete at least the last 100 kilometres on foot or horseback along any of the routes recognised as official by the Cathedral of Santiago.  And cover at least the last 200 kilometres by bicycle on official routes.
  • Obtain at least two stamps per day with corresponding dates in the credencial (pilgrim’s passport) from establishments along the route to certify the journey. Pilgrims can undertake the Camino in stages, provided these are in chronological and geographical order.
a collection of sello in a pilgrim credential

What Are The New Rules For The Compostela?

In December 2024, a Canon from the Cathedral announced potential changes to the Compostela rules. While the details remain unclear, it has been suggested that Pilgrims may no longer need to walk the last 100 km but can start elsewhere and complete the last stage of a route.

However, nothing has officially been announced, although there is plenty of speculation!  The only thing we know for sure is that there is a meeting in early February and an announcement will be made after. If you are planning to walk in 2025, my advice would be continue planning you Camino using the current rules until the Cathedral makes it clear otherwise.

Watch this space or join my Facebook Community; I will update this post and the group when the new rules have been confirmed.

Want to learn more about the Camino? Then hop over to my Free Private Facebook Group | Walking The Camino De Santiago.

How Do You Receive the Compostela

The Compostela is issued in person and individually at the Pilgrim Office in Santiago; it cannot be obtained via telephone or online communication. 

Pilgrim Office : Rúa Carretas, 33, Santiago de Compostela

It is possible, if you are travelling in a group for the group leader to collect the Compostela but I feel that receiving your Compostela is an integral part of your journey and I’d recommend you do this as an individual

It is also possible to obtain a Compostela for a deceased person; keep reading below and I explain more on the Vicarie Pro Compostela.

pilgrims at the pilgrim office in santiago, collecting their compostela

Registration For The Compostela

In recent years the issuing of the Compostela has been digitalised to help ease the queues at the pilgrim office  It was once the case that you stood in line, sometimes for several hours but thankfully, the new system is much more efficient.  

You need to register your intent to claim your Compostela, before arriving in the pilgrim office. It is very straightforward, follow the instructions on the Pilgrim office website.

  • Once complete you will receive a QR code. 
  • This code is scanned when you arrive and you will be given a ticket with a queue number. 
  • Join the line and when your number comes up you go to the appropriate desk for your Compostela.

The Compostela is free but if you wish to also have a certificate of distance there is a small charge.  And if you need a protective case for your Compostela they are available for purchase and cost 2€.

Vicarie Pro : A Compostela For Someone Who Has Died

Vicarie Pro allows pilgrims to dedicate their Camino to someone who has died.  The term Vicarie Pro translates as on behalf of or in place of and asking for this can add very special meaning to your Compostela.

I have done this now on three occasions and each time the staff in the Pilgrim Office have been exceptional kind.  If you would like this you must :

  • Present your credential and clearly indicate that you have walked Vicarie Pro.
  • You will need to provide the name of the deceased individual. 
  • The certificate issued will typically include the deceased’s name, noting that the pilgrimage was completed on their behalf.
Compostela for my Father; Vikro Pro

The Certificate of Distance

There is an option to purchase a Certificate of Distance.  I opted for this when I walked the Via de la Plata from Seville; I felt the 1006 kilometres deserved a certificate. 

You must request the certificate when you collect your Compostela in the Pilgrim Office. It details the official distance you’ve travelled, your starting point, and the route you walked. This certificate of distance costs 3 €, it is slightly larger than the Compostela and is printed on parchment paper. It is decorated with a phrase in Latin and a thumbnail, both from the Codex Calixtinus.

Exceptions to the Rules : The Celtic Camino and other National Pilgrimage Routes

The Camino Ingles is one of the oldest routes to Santiago and certainly the shortest complete route. However, starting from its historic beginning in A Coruña, the distance to Santiago is just 75 kilometres; falling short of the 100 kilometre requirement for the Compostela.

To address this, the Cathedral of Santiago allows pilgrims to combine a certified 25 kilometre pilgrimage in their home country with the 75 kilometre journey from A Coruña. This combined effort meets the 100 kilometre requirement and is known as the Celtic Camino.

In Ireland options include :

  • Bray to St. James Church in Dublin (32 km)
  • Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail in County Mayo (60 km)
  • Tóchar Phádraig from Ballintubber Abbey in County Mayo (35 km)
  • Kerry Camino from Tralee to Dingle (57 km)
  • St. Kevin’s Way in Wicklow (30 km)
  • St. Finbarr’s Pilgrim Path in Cork (42 km)
  • St. Declan’s Way in Waterford/Tipperary (96 km)
  • Mullingar Camino from Fore Abbey (25 km)

In the UK recognised routes include :

  • Pilgrims’ Way : 135 miles (217 km) from Winchester; about 90 miles (145 km) from London
  • Way of St. Andrews : Distance varies depending on the chosen path
  • Finchale Camino Inglés : Approximately 29 miles (47 km)
  • The Saints’ Way : Approximately 28.5 miles (45.6 km) via the Luxulyan route; 29 miles (46.6 km) via the Lanlivery route
  • St. James’ Way : Approximately 68 miles (109 km)

You will need an official Camino de Santiago Pilgrim’s Passport from recognised organisations, such as the Camino Society Ireland or the Confraternity of St James.  You will also still need to collect sellos in your Pilgrim Passport at the start, finish, and along the way to verify your journey.

For more information contact the local and relevant Pilgrim Associations to confirm the current rules and requirements in each country.

my distance certificate from Seville showing 1006 kilometres

FAQ : More About the Credentials and the Compostela

I often run workshops at home in France and I of course, I have my online Camino Community and these are a few other questions that I’m asked :  

How much does the Compostela cost?

The Compostela is free. The optional Certificate of Distance costs €3 and a  protective sleeve for the Compostela costs €2.

Is there an age limit for the Compostela?

No, but there are specific rules for children:

  • Children who have received the Sacrament of Communion or understand the spiritual nature of the Camino can receive a Compostela.
  • Younger children are given a special certificate with their name, or if they are very young, their names are included on the adult’s Compostela.

Can I continue using the same Credential if I do the Camino in different years or stages?

Yes. The Pilgrim’s Office accepts Credentials with stamps showing that your Camino was completed in stages, provided the route and timeline make sense. And you must start where you ended, to make chronological and geographical sense; although this rule only strictly applies to the last 100 kilometres walked.

Do I need a new Credential for each new Camino route?

Yes. For example, if you’ve walked the Camino Frances and later plan to walk the Camino Portuguese, you’ll need a new Credential for the new route.

What should I do if my Credential is full before finishing?

It’s perfectly acceptable to have multiple Credentials for a single pilgrimage: I had 4 for my Via de la Plata Camino.  Start a new one when the old one is full, keep them in chronological order and present all of them at the Pilgrim Office.

What happens if I lose my Credential?

Get a replacement Credential and start collecting stamps as soon as possible. Also to try and find your original Credential contact :

Top Tip : Write a contact number or an email address somewhere on your credential; if it is lost, this will help find it’s way back to you.

Can I personalise my Credential with extra stamps after reaching Santiago?

Pilgrims sometimes collect stamps as souvenirs beyond the official journey.  I had a friend who made a work of art with her credentials, making notes and tiny drawings along the way.  Do remember though that the pilgrim office need to clearly see that you have walked and that the sello are correct and in chronological and geographical order.

Once you have received the Compostela, the Pilgrim Office will stamp the beginning and end of the credential; thereby sealing it for use again officially.  Of course, if you wish to add further sello of decoration this will be your choice.

What should I do if there’s no stamp available?

If no stamp is available (e.g., online-only check-in for accommodations), I draw a small image with the location name and date. I’d also make sure that I still have two stamps on that date.  If you can show the correct chronological order, for me at least, this has never been questioned by the Pilgrim Office.

some of the different designs of the Credential; pilgrim passports

Final Thoughts For The Pilgrim Passport, Credential And Compostela

The origins of pilgrimage are rooted in a tradition where kings and paupers alike walked to the tomb of St. James the Apostle. While the world has changed significantly since the tomb was rediscovered in 813, the essence of those first pilgrimages remain the same.

For many, walking the Camino is about so much more than simply reaching Santiago. It’s about the journey, the connections that we make, the things that we see and the moments that we shared is what we carry with us long after we return home.

The Credential and Compostela may seem like simple documents and collecting sello can even feel like a treasure hunt at times.  But nonetheless, these documents serve a deeper purpose, they are steeped in history and hold the stories of every pilgrim who has walked before you.

I love revisiting my Credentials. They remind me of the people I’ve met, the places I’ve seen, and the journeys that I made. Today, after countless visits to Santiago, my Compostela still holds meaning too. I cannot imagine not visiting the Tomb of St. James nor making my way to the Pilgrim Office to collect mine.

The Camino de Santiago is a journey like no other, and the credential, your pilgrim passport, and your Compostela, will inevitably become part of your own story.

P.S. Tell me what your Credential or Compostela means to you or share a photo of how you’ve framed or displayed yours at home; join my Facebook Community as I’d love to hear more!

Want to learn more about the Camino? Then hop over to my Free Private Facebook Group | Walking The Camino De Santiago.

the stamp of the Pilgrim Office and the Cathedral de Santiago; this seals the Credential

Are You Walking The Camino de Santiago?

I’ve walked this glorious trail many times and I’m already planning my next visit. I’ve written a detailed daily walking guides for both the Camino Frances and Pilgrim Guides for key cities along the way.

If you’re planning your Camino or already on the trail, I’d love to hear about your experiences. Join our Camino community on Facebook, share your stories, and find inspiration for the road ahead.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Whenever you travel, you should have great travel and medical insurance.  None of us expect anything bad to happen, but in the event of an incident, you want to be sure that your insurance will cover you.

I’ve ended up in hospital in Peru, Indonesia, Portugal, Japan and Ireland. Every time my insurance took care of everything. I would never leave home without full and comprehensive insurance.

TrueTraveller : We have this policy and are very happy with the cover, especially considering our ages and pre-existing conditions.

Globelink: We have used and recommended Globelink for years and not heard of any issues. They are a great choice for European and UK Residents.

Genki : This is an EU based company offering long term policies for nomads and travellers. Their monthly rates are very competitive for longer trips too.

Safety Wing : Many of my travelling buddies from the USA recommended Safety Wing; we’ve not used them personally but know folks who have.

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Colleen in Salamanca on the Via de la Plata

Hey I’m Colleen. I’m married to Gerry, we’ve three fabulous kids and been living in France for almost two decades. I fell in love with Spain in the 1980s and I’ve walked 1000s of miles along the Camino de Santiago. Now we’re exploring and walking the world and I can’t wait to share what we’ve learned!

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