In 2025, is it worth being self-employed?

You want to be your own? Are you considering becoming a Spanish boss but wondering whether it is worth it? Don’t let the horror stories put you off. If you have the will, there’s no reason why you can’t do it. How to be a freelancer in Spain.

Want to be in charge of your own destiny? You can also read about the other ways to get in touch with us. boss in sunny España? Well, before you pop the cava and order business cards with “CEO” printed in gold, brace yourself – becoming autónomo In Spain, being self-employed involves some paperwork. However, it does not have to be a total 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. Find out how and what to do by reading on.

Step 1 – Grab your ID, patience and head over to Social Security

First stop: the Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social, or Social Security office. If you don’t have a number, you will need to get one. get your Seguridad Social number Sign up for the RETA – the Special ‘Regime’ for Self-Employed Workers.

This involves model TA0521 You’ll need to fill out the first of many forms (which are all charmingly numbered), and, if you want some extra trouble or you’re planning on hiring someone, you will also have to register your business. model TA.6. That one gives you a Código de Cuenta de Cotización – 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. Even if the most dangerous tool you use is a laptop.

This is mandatory since 2007. Sign up with a mutua. You can also pray There is no need to contact them. The full list is available online 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. Register at the Agencia Tributaria. Censo de Empresarios – a national list of businesspeople.

Enter: Modelo 036 – the Holy Grail of forms. It is important to fill out your details about your business, your tax status and how you intend to follow the law. You may be eligible to use Modelo 037This version is shorter and has 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: Tell the local government that you are open for business

Are you planning to work from your shop, studio or spare room? Then the local Consejería de Trabajo wants to know about it. Your regional government must be notified of the opening of your new workplace.

If you miss this step, you could face fines.

Step 5: Apply for the proper licenses before you are reported

The licenses you need will vary depending on where and what you are doing. Selling candles on Cadiz’s coast? Yoga classes in Valencia? It doesn’t matter – you’ll need to get the appropriate local permits for your activity.

What’s the best advice to give? Hire a professional (gestor) to keep your books. The town halls are slow to move, especially in August. You do not want to be caught in bureaucratic limbo, while your competitors steal away your customers.

Who can become self-employed (autónomo) in Spain?

Just about anyone with a pulse – but here’s the fine print:

You can apply if you’re a citizen of the EU/EEA/Switzerland

• You must be legally resident in Spain.
• You must have an NIE (Foreigner ID Number).
• No need for a work visa – lucky you.

You can apply if you’re not a member of the EU

There’s more paper to fill out. You’ll need:

• You will need a work visa if you do not already reside in Spain. (Apply at your consulate in the country of origin).
• Proof of funding and a solid business plan.
• Your business may require you to acquire training or qualifications.
• Valid NIE and residency permits.
• Note: If you are already a Spanish national, you will be treated as any other EU citizen.

What about tax and money?

• If applicable, you will pay IVA (VAT), and IRPF.
• You’ll make monthly social security payments (a flat rate “tarifa plana” of €80/month for new autónomos is available under certain conditions).
• You will be held personally responsible for all debts. You’ll be classified as an individual trader.  

Final verdict: is it worth becoming a freelancer?

If you’ve got a business dream, a thick skin and a knack for admin – absolutely. Spain’s freelance industry is flourishing. Once you get past the red tape, it’s liberating, lucrative and sunny.

If you go into this blindly, you may find yourself drowning with Modelo 036s and forgotten passwords. You might also be late on your tax returns. Find a bookkeeper to help with your paperwork and take care of your books. It’s best to choose a bookkeeper who is reliable and affordable. They cost between 50 and 80 euros a month. Most people find a tutor through online or word-of-mouth, but it’s important to check their reviews and ensure they are qualified. The old saying goes: Spain is an adventure, not just a nation.

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