Where do I get my pilgrim passport?
For the Camino de Santiago, approved pilgrim credenciales are available either from the national confraternity in your country of residence or an albergue or pilgrim information centre along the Camino. The major English-speaking confraternities are:
For the Via Francigena, it’s best to order a credential in advance from the European Association of the Via Francigena, which offers official credentials through its partner, SloWays (€5 plus shipping, allow 1–2 months).
Check out local tourist offices, cathedrals, or pilgrimage organisations for advice on all other pilgrimages. If there is no place near where you’re based, there will likely be somewhere at the most common starting points of the Camino.
How much do they cost?
While costs vary depending on the route and purchase point, pilgrim passports are generally around €3-5.
Can I walk a camino without one?
Yes, you can walk without one, but having a pilgrim passport is highly recommended. Many pilgrim hostels prioritise beds for official pilgrims, so they require a credential as proof. Plus, no credential equals no certificate of completion, and both the passport and the certificate are fantastic souvenirs to keep after your trip.
How do I get my compostela (certificate)?
The compostela or certificate is a document that proves the pilgrimage according to the rules dictated by the church. For the Camino de Santiago, starting at Sarria, pilgrims must secure two stamps daily to confirm they have walked the requisite 100km (200km for bikers and horse riders) to receive their compostela. A second daily stamp can easily be secured from cafés or from many churches along the way. Since 2024, e-bike riders have not been eligible to receive a compostela.
At the pilgrim office in Santiago (Rúa Carretas, no.33, ) pilgrims can present their completed credencial and receive a compostela (free) and a distance certificate (€3) with their name translated into its Latin equivalent, that documents the distance walked. For a small fee of €2 the office sells cardboard tubes to protect your compostela on your trip home.
