Registering as self-employed in Spain, step by step
The two essential registrations — tax office and Social Security — and the right order to start invoicing.
By Equipa ContaFlowMay 30, 20265 min read
Registering as self-employed in Spain comes down to two registrations. Done in the right order, you can invoice legally within days.
The two steps
- Tax office (Agencia Tributaria): file form 036 or 037 to declare your activity (the IAE code) and your VAT/income-tax regime.
- Social Security: register under the self-employed scheme (RETA), usually within the legal window from when your activity starts.
Before you start
- Have your NIE/NIF and a Spanish bank account.
- Choose the activity code that best describes what you do.
- Check whether you qualify for the initial flat rate.
Do the tax office first, then Social Security — that's the usual order.
With both registrations done, you can issue invoices and get your activity going.
This content is educational and does not replace a gestoría, tax advisor or lawyer.