How to Register as Self-Employed (Autónomo) in Spain: Simple Guide for Expats
- Servando Espanol
- 18 nov 2025
- 3 Min. de lectura
If you’re an expat living in Spain and thinking about freelancing, consulting, or running your own business, you’ll need to register as self-employed (“autónomo”).This step-by-step guide explains the process in plain English and is designed especially for expats who often struggle to find an English-speaking accountant in Spain or clear information.
Whether you’re in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Andalucía, the Canary Islands, or anywhere else, the process is exactly the same, and much simpler than most newcomers think.
1. Who Needs to Register as Self-Employed in Spain?
You must register as autónomo if:
You invoice clients regularly
You freelance online or locally
You manage your own small business
You earn income in Spain or abroad on a continuous basis
You want to operate legally and avoid penalties
Many expats ask whether they need to register even if most clients are abroad. Yes. What matters is that you live in Spain, not where your clients are.
If you’re unsure, an expat accountant in Spain can evaluate your case.
2. What You Need Before Registering
Make sure you have:
NIE
Passport
Spanish address
Social Security number (can be issued during the process)
Spanish bank account
Your professional activity (IAE code)
Digital Certificate (Certificado Digital), if you don’t have it yet, we help you get it
(And if you register through us, you don’t need it before starting, we can complete the registration for you while you obtain it.)
3. How to Register as Autónomo in Spain (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 — Register with Hacienda (Tax Office)
You file Modelo 036 or 037, declaring:
Your activity
Start date
VAT obligations
Your tax regime
This step activates your ability to invoice legally in Spain.
Step 2 — Register with Social Security (RETA)
You must complete this within 60 days before or up to the same day you start work.
It establishes your monthly autónomo contribution.
Step 3 — Choose Your Contribution Based on Income
Since 2023, autónomo fees depend on your expected income.Lower income → lower contribution.
Most expats begin with the lowest bracket (€230–€320/month).
New autónomos in Spain can access the “Tarifa Plana”, a reduced Social Security fee (around €87/month for the first 12 months).
Step 4 — Start Issuing Legal Invoices
Invoices must include:
Your details
NIE
VAT rate
Description of the service
Invoice number
If you work with clients abroad, an English-speaking accountant near you can advise whether VAT applies.
From 2026, autónomos in Spain must use VERIFACTU-compliant invoicing software, meaning all invoices must be generated through approved systems to ensure transparency and prevent errors
4. Taxes You Must File as an Autónomo
Quarterly Taxes
VAT (IVA) – Modelo 303
Income Tax (IRPF) – Modelo 130
Annual Taxes
Modelo 390
Modelo 100 (income tax return)
Expats often miss these deadlines, which is why many prefer hiring an English-speaking gestor near me (as they often search on Google).
5. What You Can Deduct as an Expat Freelancer in Spain
You can deduct expenses directly related to your work:
Laptop, phone, equipment
Internet and mobile
Coworking
Accounting fees
Software and subscriptions
Business travel
Courses and training
If you work from home, you may deduct a portion of:
Rent
Utilities
Internet
An English-speaking accountant in Spain can calculate the correct percentages.
6. Common Mistakes Expats Make (Avoid These)
❌ Registering under the wrong activity code
❌ Missing Social Security registration
❌ Filing VAT incorrectly
❌ Mixing personal and business expenses
❌ Not declaring foreign income
❌ Assuming rules are the same as in the UK/US/Europe
These errors can lead to fines, get help early.
7. How We Help Expats Register as Autónomos
Many expats prefer working with an English-speaking accountant in Spain, especially when first arriving.We help with:
Full autónomo registration
NIE and Social Security setup
VAT & income tax filings
Invoicing system setup
Foreign income guidance
Ongoing tax support in English
We assist clients online in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Andalucía, Galicia, Cantabria, the Canary Islands, and everywhere else.
FAQs for Expats Registering as Self-Employed in Spain
Do I need an English-speaking accountant in Spain to register as autónomo?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended if you don’t speak Spanish or have foreign income.
How do expats in Madrid or Barcelona register as self-employed?
Exactly the same process. Everything can be done online.
Can an English-speaking tax advisor in Spain help with foreign income?
Absolutely — and it’s one of the most common areas where expats need help.
Can I register as autónomo if my clients are outside Spain?
Yes. What matters is that you live in Spain.
How fast can I register?
Same day if all documents are ready.
Ready to Register?
If you prefer clear explanations, help in English, and avoiding Spanish bureaucracy, we can register you as autónomo 100% online.
And the best part?👉 We register you for free when you become a client.
Book a free orientation call — no commitment.
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