Anyone who works for themselves and generates income in Spain must register as an Autónomo. This includes:
- Freelancers
- Small Business Owners
- Online Business Owners

Even part-time or side gigs that can be considered an ongoing activity, require registration

As an Autónomo, you are subject to three primary taxes:
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- Income Tax (IRPF): You pay a percentage of your net earnings. Rates are progressive, starting at 19% for the first €12,450 and increasing up to 47% for higher earnings. Quarterly tax prepayments are required.
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- VAT (IVA): Standard rate is 21% (some goods/services qualify for reduced rates). You must charge VAT on invoices and file VAT returns quarterly. Certain activities (e.g., medical services) may be VAT-exempt.
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- Social Security Contributions: Spain introduced a progressive system in 2023, where contributions are based on your declared net income:
  1) Low earnings (<€1,300/month): Contributions start at around €230/month.
   2) Higher earnings (>€4,000/month): Contributions can exceed €500/month.
   3) New Autónomos may qualify for a reduced flat fee of about €80/month for the first 12 months

You can hire a "gestor" to help you manage all these responsibilities. We have partnered with TaxScouts who can help you manage all the Admin that comes with being Self-Employed in Spain.

For the most part, no. But some Self-Employed individuals who work in certain industries may qualify. You can read more about it here.

To register as an Autónomo, you’ll need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain an NIE: This is your foreign identification number in Spain. You can learn more about how to apply for it here.
2. Register with the Agencia Tributaria (Tax Agency): Submit a registration with the Tax Agency to declare your economic activity and obtain a tax identification number (CIF).
3. Register with Social Security (Seguridad Social):You must sign up for the RETA (Régimen Especial de Trabajadores Autónomos) and start paying monthly contributions.
4. Set up your invoicing system: Keep invoices and expenses organized, as they’re crucial for tax reporting.

You can get help from TaxScouts to register as an Autónomo and sort all your admin.