Becoming Your Own Boss in Spain
If you're a British expat planning to work for yourself in Spain, you'll need to register as an autónomo — Spain's version of self-employment.
Whether you're a freelance writer, tradesperson, consultant, or small business owner, being an autónomo lets you operate legally, pay into the social security system, and access public healthcare.
But the process can seem confusing — especially with Spanish paperwork! This guide breaks down everything you need to know, in plain English.
Step 1: Make Sure You Have the Right Visa or Residency
Since Brexit, UK citizens no longer have automatic EU work rights. You'll need legal residency that allows self-employment.
Common options include:
Self-employment visa (visado de trabajo por cuenta propia)
Digital nomad visa (for remote work)
Non-lucrative visa (if you won't be earning in Spain)
To apply for the self-employment visa, you'll usually need:
Proof of qualifications and experience
A viable business plan
Evidence of sufficient funds
Health insurance
Once approved, you can register as an autónomo in Spain.
Need help with visas or paperwork? Find English-speaking immigration lawyers and gestorías on BritishBusinessPagesInSpain.es.
Step 2: Get Your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)
Before registering for anything in Spain, you'll need your NIE — your all-important ID number for foreigners.
You can apply for an NIE:
At your local Spanish police station (if already in Spain)
At a Spanish consulate in the UK before you move
You'll need:
Completed EX-15 form
Passport and photocopy
Proof of purpose (self-employment)
Many gestorías can apply for your NIE on your behalf.
Step 3: Register with the Tax Office (Agencia Tributaria)
Next, you'll register as self-employed with Spain's tax authority, the Agencia Tributaria (Hacienda).
You'll complete form Modelo 036 or Modelo 037, which declares:
Your personal details
The type of work you'll do (business activity code or “IAE”)
Where your business will operate
You'll then be assigned a CIF (tax ID) and a tax category for VAT (IVA).
Tip: Get help from an English-speaking accountant to ensure you choose the right tax structure.
Step 4: Register with Social Security (Seguridad Social)
Once you're registered with Hacienda, you have 30 days to register with Social Security.
This gives you access to:
Public healthcare
Pension contributions
Sick leave and maternity/paternity benefits
You'll pay a monthly social security contribution, known as the cuota de autónomos.
As of 2025:
The cuota is based on your income level
Minimum contributions start around €230/month for new autónomos
You may qualify for a “tarifa plana” (reduced rate) — €80/month for the first 12 months
Accountants listed on our directory can handle monthly payments and reporting for you.
Step 5: Set Up Accounting and Invoicing
As an autónomo, you're responsible for your own bookkeeping and taxes.
You must:
Issue invoices (facturas) for every job, including VAT (IVA) if applicable
Keep records of expenses, receipts, and payments
File quarterly and annual tax returns
Typical forms include:
Modelo 130 – income tax (IRPF)
Modelo 303 – VAT
Modelo 390 – annual VAT summary
Avoid mistakes — hire an English-speaking accountant or gestor to manage your declarations.
Step 6: Understand Your Tax Obligations
Autónomos pay two main taxes:
IRPF (Income Tax) — paid quarterly, based on your net income.
IVA (VAT) — charged on invoices and paid to the government.
Keep your finances organised — Spanish tax authorities can audit at any time.
Our directory includes English-speaking tax advisors who work exclusively with British expats and small business owners.
Step 7: Open a Business Bank Account
Although not mandatory, a separate bank account makes managing taxes easier.
Look for banks that:
Offer English-speaking support
Provide online business tools
Allow international transfers at low fees
Step 8: Promote Your Business in Spain
Once you're up and running, start growing your client base!
Join expat networking groups or business associations
Use social media and Google Business listings
Advertise your services on British Business Pages in Spain to reach English-speaking clients across the country
Add your business to our directory today and reach thousands of expats looking for trusted professionals.
Step 9: Consider Insurance and Legal Protection
As a self-employed professional, consider:
Professional liability insurance
Health insurance (if not in the public system)
Legal cover for disputes or contract issues
These protections give peace of mind and are often required for certain professions.
Final Thoughts: Get Expert Help and Focus on Your Business
Becoming self-employed in Spain can seem complicated, but with the right guidance, it's entirely achievable.
Most British expats rely on English-speaking accountants and gestorías to handle the paperwork, freeing them to focus on their business.
Visit BritishBusinessPagesInSpain.es to find trusted professionals who specialise in helping expats register, manage taxes, and thrive as autónomos in Spain.
Learn how to register as self-employed (‘autónomo') in Spain as a Brit. Step-by-step guide covering taxes, social security & English-speaking help.
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Starting a Business in Spain as a Foreigner
Taxes for Freelancers in Spain Explained
How to Get a Digital Nomad Visa in Spain
Opening a Bank Account in Spain for Expats
Hiring Employees in Spain: What to Know as an Autónomo
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