Becoming self-employed in Spain: what should I do?

A growing number of people work for themselves in Spain

A self-employed worker (autónomo) carries out a commercial activity on their own account, without an employment contract or a boss above them. The trade-off is real: more freedom, more invoices to issue, more paperwork to file. Every day more young Spaniards, disillusioned by salaried work, take this step.

Minimum requirements to register as autónomo

1. Carry out an economic activity on your own account and for profit.
2. Develop the activity without depending on the management or organisation of another person.
3. Make the activity habitual: it must count as a source of income, primary or secondary.

Steps to register

1. Register first with the Censo de Empresarios (the tax authority's roster of business operators), filing form 036 or 037 with the Agencia Tributaria.
2. Then register with the RETA (Régimen Especial de Trabajadores Autónomos), the social security regime for the self-employed.

The two filings are sequential. Once you are in RETA, the social security monthly contribution starts from the date of registration, even if you have not yet issued a single invoice.

If you want a professional team to handle the whole process, our firm can help.

If you have any doubts, Riondato & Partners is here to help

If you need an English-speaking lawyer in Alicante, Elche, Torrevieja or Benidorm, we can help. We are admitted to practise across Spain and Italy. With over 45 years of experience across the various areas of law, the firm offers clients the chance to rely on a team of seasoned, dedicated professionals. Get in touch, we are at your disposal.