How to get the Compostela
The document that certifies your pilgrimage, explained step by step: requirements, stamps and where to collect it.
What the Compostela is
The Compostela is the official certificate, in Latin, awarded by the Cathedral Chapter to those who complete the Camino de Santiago for religious or spiritual reasons. It's not just a tourist diploma: it has centuries of tradition and is still issued in the same solemn format.
To get it you need two things: to have covered the required minimum distance and to be able to prove it with your stamped credential. The process itself, once in Santiago, is quick and free.
Distance requirements
100 km minimum
You must walk at least the last 100 km to Santiago, on any of the official routes.
200 km minimum
On bike or horseback, the minimum required distance doubles to 200 km to the Cathedral.
Religious or spiritual
When requesting it, you declare your motivation as religious or spiritual, not purely sporting or cultural.
The pilgrim credential
The credential is a small booklet where you collect stamps at each stage: proof that you've walked the Camino. You get it from Friends of the Camino associations, parishes, hostels and tourist offices before setting off, for around €2-3.
The rule is simple: one stamp a day generally, but two stamps a day are compulsory on the last 100 km (or 200 km by bike), to prove you haven't skipped stretches by car or bus.
Hostels
The most common: almost all stamp on arrival or departure, free of charge.
Bars and cafés
Many have their own stamp, especially on the last 100 km.
Churches and parishes
Stamps with a lot of symbolic value, though not always open.
Town halls and tourist offices
A reliable backup if you can't find anywhere to stamp in a small village.
Where and how to collect the Compostela
Pilgrim's Reception Office
Rúa das Carretas 33, a few minutes from the Cathedral. Open every day of the year.
Allow some time
From 10 minutes in low season to over two hours in August or a Holy Year.
Skip the queue
You can book a slot on the Cathedral's official website before reaching Santiago.
Free
The Compostela itself costs nothing. You only pay if you request the additional distance certificate (donation).
Other certificates you can request
| Certificado | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 📜 Compostela | The traditional religious/spiritual certificate, in Latin, with your name latinised. | Free |
| 📏 Distance certificate | States the exact kilometres walked from your starting point. | ~€3 |
| 🚴 Cycling Compostela | Variant for those doing the Camino by bike, in the same format. | Free |
| 🎓 Fisterrana certificate | For those continuing to Finisterre or Muxía after Santiago. | ~€3 |
Everything about the Compostela
How many kilometres do you have to walk for the Compostela?
Where can I start to walk just the last 100 km?
How many stamps do I need per day?
Does the Compostela cost anything?
Can I request the Compostela without a religious motivation?
What happens if I lose my credential?
Can I collect the Compostela on a day other than my arrival?
Is the name on the Compostela in English?
Related guides
Now you know how to get it. And your route?
Choose your Camino, plan your stages, and when you reach Santiago, come celebrate with us at Bonsai Café.