So you want to be your own boss in Spain but you’re wondering whether it’s still worth it? We’ve all heard the horror stories, but don’t be put off. Where there’s a will there’s a way. Here’s how to go freelance in Spain the right way.
Dreaming of ditching the 9 to 5 and calling the shots as your own boss in sunny España? Well, before you pop the cava and order business cards with “CEO” printed in gold, brace yourself – becoming autónomo (self-employed) in Spain involves some paperwork. But it doesn’t have to be a complete nightmare. Here’s your no-nonsense, warts-and-all crash course to getting legally self-employed in Spain – from the forms that’ll fry your brain to the thrills of tax. Read on to find out what you need to do and how to do it.
Step 1: Grab your ID, your patience and head to Social Security
First stop: the Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social, or Social Security office. If you’ve never had a number before, you’ll need to get your Seguridad Social number and then sign up to the RETA – the Special ‘Regime’ for Self-Employed Workers.
This involves model TA0521 (the first of many charmingly numbered forms), and if you’re hiring anyone or just fancy some extra pain, you’ll also need a business registration using model TA.6. That one gives you a Código de Cuenta de Cotización – basically your contribution account number.
All autónomos must do everything online. That means managing your contributions, reading official messages and even crying into your laptop – all digitally.
Step 2: Choose your friendly mutua – and yes, you need one
Every autónomo must choose a mutual insurance partner (mutua) to cover accidents at work, illness, and temporary leave. Yes, even if your most dangerous tool is a laptop.
Since 2007, this has been compulsory, not optional. Find a mutua, sign up, and pray you never need to call them. Full listings are available on the Social Security site and via the Asociación de Mutuas de Accidentes de Trabajo.
Step 3: Get chummy with Hacienda – and meet your new best friend: Modelo 036
You’re not a real autónomo until Hacienda (the Spanish tax agency) knows about you. Head to the Agencia Tributaria and register in the Censo de Empresarios – a national list of businesspeople.
Enter: Modelo 036 – the Holy Grail of forms. Fill it out with your business details, tax status, and intentions to be a good, law-abiding taxpayer. If you qualify, you might be allowed to use Modelo 037, a shorter version for the small fish with simple setups.
Either way, no taxes, no invoices, no party – and all of it must be filed before you send out your first invoice.
Step 4: Let the local government know you’re open for business
Planning on working from a shop, studio, or even your spare room? Then the local Consejería de Trabajo wants to know about it. You must declare the opening of your workplace to your regional government.
Skip this step and you risk fines.
Step 5: Apply for the right licences before someone reports you
Licences vary wildly depending on what you’re doing and where. Selling candles in Cadiz? Teaching yoga in Valencia? It doesn’t matter – you’ll need to get the appropriate local permits for your activity.
Best advice? Start early and employ a professional bookkeeper (gestor). Town halls move at a glacial pace, especially in August. You don’t want to be stuck in bureaucratic limbo while your competition steals your customers.
Who can become self-employed (autónomo) in Spain?
Just about anyone with a pulse – but here’s the fine print:
If you’re from the EU/EEA/Switzerland:
- You must reside legally in Spain.
- You must have a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number).
- No need for a work visa – lucky you.
If you’re from outside the EU:
It’s more paperwork. You’ll need:
- A work visa, unless you already have residency in Spain (apply at the consulate in your home country).
- A solid business plan and proof of funds.
- Training or qualifications related to your business.
- A valid NIE and residency permit.
- Note: If you’re already a Spanish resident, you’re treated the same as any other EU national.
What about taxes and money?
- You’ll pay IRPF (income tax) and IVA (VAT) if applicable.
- You’ll make monthly social security payments (a flat rate “tarifa plana” of €80/month for new autónomos is available under certain conditions).
- You’ll be personally liable for any debts. You’ll be classed as a sole trader.
Final verdict: Is becoming freelance in Spain worth it?
If you’ve got a business dream, a thick skin and a knack for admin – absolutely. Spain’s freelance scene is thriving, and once you’re through the red tape jungle, it can be liberating, profitable and sunny-side-up.
But go in blind, and you might find yourself drowning in Modelo 036s, forgotten passwords, and overdue tax returns. The easiest way is to find a good bookkeeper who can help you with the paperwork and do your books for you. They usually cost around 50-80 euros per month, but it’s important to find a good one. People usually find someone through word of mouth or online, but check reviews and make sure they know their stuff. As the old saying goes, Spain is not just a country, it’s an adventure.
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