Catalonia launches a new video call service allowing residents to complete around thirty government procedures from home.
The initiative, spearheaded by the regional government, aims to simplify bureaucratic processes and improve accessibility for citizens across the territory.
Catalonia Launches Digital Service To Bring Offices Home
The service connects residents directly with a public worker via a secure video call.
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Consequently, people can now handle tasks like registering a stable partnership, applying for a disability card, or requesting a youth travel card without visiting a physical office. The project represents a significant investment of €400,000 in digital transformation.
Currently, six dedicated officials manage the video calls, with the system designed to handle approximately one hundred requests per week. Furthermore, the government plans to expand the service’s capabilities throughout 2026. The goal is to eventually enable every procedure available in a physical office to be completed remotely.
Albert Dalmau, the Minister of the Presidency, has consistently emphasised the need to simplify bureaucratic management for citizens. “We want to bring citizen service offices into homes,” Dalmau summarised. He added, however, that the procedures would be conducted “accompanied by a person. The language can be dense or confusing, and you need an expert by your side to guide you.”
All services are accessible through the Generalitat’s official procedures portal. To ensure efficiency, the video assistance requires a prior appointment. Officials contact the person a couple of days beforehand to verify they have all necessary documentation.
Breaking Down Barriers With Virtual Hubs
In a parallel move to enhance accessibility, a new virtual office has opened in Sant Feliu de Llobregat’s town hall. This hub allows residents to manage procedures with the supra-municipal administration via video call in the same building where they handle local council matters. The regional government plans to establish ten such installations across Catalonia by the end of its term.
The Sant Feliu office, resembling an ATM, is equipped with a printer, scanner, card terminal, and digital pen for signing. Mayor Lourdes Borrell highlighted its importance for vulnerable residents. “Sometimes we think everyone has everything, but that’s not the case. This project also benefits vulnerable people,” Borrell stated, noting her council’s long-standing work on digitalisation.
Accessibility features will be significantly enhanced in early 2026. The service will incorporate real-time transcription in Catalan, Spanish, and English. Additionally, it will offer the possibility of requesting a sign language interpreter and include a simultaneous translation system for Arabic and Urdu. This development directly addresses barriers related to travel and language.
This digital push aligns with broader efforts to modernise public services in Barcelona. For instance, recent agreements on creating a housing inspectors body show a similar focus on improving civic administration. The video call service marks a concrete step towards a more efficient and citizen-centric government for Catalonia.
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