Set up as self-employed in Spain the right way
Becoming self-employed in Spain involves several administrative and legal steps that are easy to get wrong without the right guidance — from social security registration to tax obligations. One wrong move at the start can mean fines, delays, or a setup that doesn’t match your actual activity.
We guide you through the full autónomo registration process, explaining requirements, costs, and ongoing obligations in plain terms. From initial setup to coordination with tax advisors, we make sure everything is done correctly from day one.
1. Checking your eligibility
Before registering, it’s worth confirming that the autónomo status is the right fit for your situation. EU citizens can register directly. Non-EU residents need a valid residency permit that authorises self-employment — not all permit types do. We check your situation upfront so there are no surprises.
2. Choosing your activity code (IAE/CNAE)
Every autónomo must declare one or more activity codes that define what they do professionally. Choosing the wrong code can affect your tax obligations and, in some cases, your Social Security contribution category. We help you identify the right code for your actual activity.
3. Tax Agency registration (Alta en Hacienda)
The first formal step is registering with the Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria) via form 036 or 037. This sets up your tax obligations — including quarterly VAT returns (IVA) and income tax payments (IRPF) if applicable. We prepare the paperwork and make sure the declaration reflects your situation correctly.
4. Social Security registration (Alta en la Seguridad Social)
Registration with the Régimen Especial de Trabajadores Autónomos (RETA) must happen before you start working — not after. Your monthly Social Security contribution is calculated based on your declared income, following the income-based contribution system introduced in 2023. We explain what you’ll pay at your income level and handle the registration.
5. Ongoing obligations
Being autónomo means quarterly filings, annual declarations, and keeping proper records. We connect you with a local gestor or asesoría who can handle your ongoing tax filings, so you stay compliant without spending your time on paperwork.
6. Practical considerations
A few things worth knowing before you register: the first-year flat rate (tarifa plana) for new autónomos may apply to your situation and significantly reduces your Social Security contributions in the early months. Certain professional activities also require additional registration with a professional association (colegio profesional) — architects, lawyers, and healthcare professionals among others. We flag anything relevant to your specific case.
Need help with your NIE or tax number before registering? That’s covered in our Settlement Pass.
