Are you looking to launch an entrepreneurial venture in Spain but unsure of the steps to follow?
Then you’re in the right place.
Achieving your self-employed visa Spain isn’t complicated — but it’s essential to properly activate your self-employment status. That’s where our experts have developed this detailed step-by-step guide.
What is an autónomo?
Being self-employed in Spain means working as an independent contractor or freelancer. In Spain, this status is known as autónomo — a physical person who carries out an economic activity for their own account, without an employment contract.
This status does not separate personal and professional assets.
The autónomo category is increasingly popular across sectors such as tourism, startups, education, and more — offering abundant professional opportunities in Spain.
Due to geographic proximity, many French citizens choose to launch their businesses across the Pyrenees and pursue a self-employed visa Spain.
Prerequisites for expatriates
Even if you are not a Spanish citizen, you can still obtain autónomo status and become self-employed in Spain — provided you meet the following requirements:
- Reside in Spain for tax purposes: You must live in Spain for more than 183 days per year, or have your main economic activities centered here.
- Hold a Foreigner’s Identification Number (NIE): This is mandatory for all administrative procedures in Spain — from opening a bank account to registering for taxes. You can apply for your NIE through local police stations (comisarías) or via a lawyer. The process can take up to three months.
- Open a Spanish bank account: You’ll need your ID, NIE, and proof of Spanish residency to open one. This is required to receive payments and manage business finances.
Declaration to the Hacienda
The Agencia Tributaria, commonly known as Hacienda, is Spain’s tax authority responsible for managing all aspects of the Spanish tax system, including income tax, VAT, and filings.
To obtain your self-employed visa Spain, you must declare your activity to Hacienda.
You can apply online, but we strongly recommend booking an in-person appointment at your local office. Staff can guide you through the process and ensure your paperwork is correct.
At your appointment, you’ll complete one of two forms:
- Modelo 36 — for complex or high-turnover activities.
- Modelo 37 — simplified version for most freelancers.
Your choice depends on your activity type and VAT regime. To select the correct code for your profession, consult the official IAE Epigraphs list.
If your services are provided to clients in other EU countries, you must register for the Regimen de Operadores Intracomunitario (Intra-Community VAT regime).
Your appointment will also cover your tax obligations, including quarterly and annual filing deadlines.
Social Security registration
Next, you must register with Social Security — the body managing healthcare, pensions, and contributions for workers in Spain.
Like with Hacienda, book an appointment online and visit your local office. There, you’ll complete Modelo TA0521.
Upon completion, you’ll receive a Social Security number and be enrolled in the RETA (Régimen Especial de Trabajadores Autónomos) — the special scheme for self-employed individuals.
The process is free and takes just minutes.
You’ll also learn about available benefits — for example:
- Entrepreneurs under 30 may qualify for reduced contributions.
- Contributions increase gradually over the first two years.
Monthly Social Security Contribution (First Two Years)
- First 6 months: €60.00
- Months 7–12: €152.50
- Months 13–18: €186.25
- From month 19: €283.30
Your obligations as autónomo
Congratulations — you now hold your self-employed visa Spain (i.e., you’re officially an autónomo)!
As a self-employed individual, you are responsible for two main taxes:
- Personal Income Tax (IRPF): A progressive tax based on your annual earnings. Rates vary by Spanish autonomous community.
- VAT (IVA): A consumption tax applied to goods and services. The standard rate in Spain is 21%, which must be included in your invoices.
Remember: You must file quarterly returns (Modelo 130 for IRPF and Modelo 303 for VAT) and an annual summary (Modelo 100).
Now you have all the information needed to become a self-employed professional in Spain.
If you still have doubts — don’t risk mistakes. Turn to the professionals.
Whether you’re based in Cullera, Sueca, Javea, Moraira, or Alicante, at Delaguía y Luzón, our legal advisors and qualified lawyers are here to help you establish your business in Spain and obtain your autónomo status.
By working with our firm, you can focus entirely on your business — while we handle the administrative, legal, and tax complexities.
We’ll clarify your rights and duties, help you optimize your tax position, and ensure full compliance with Spanish law.
Contact us today to discuss your project with our advisors.
