Applies to: Spanish self-employment; immigration route and regional licensing depend on the activity.
Before you start
- Evidence that your status permits the proposed self-employment.
- Business activity, qualifications and any required licences.
- Tax and Social Security identity details, start date and account details.
The steps
Confirm the right to work
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and different residence holders have different starting points. A new non-EU applicant abroad may need the cuenta propia authorisation/visa process before starting.
Prepare the business case if required
The Ministry’s initial self-employed route asks for the activity, required qualifications/licences and sufficient investment/viability evidence. A tax registration does not replace immigration approval.
Register the tax activity
Use the appropriate AEAT census process and activity classification. Modelo 037 was withdrawn in February 2025; current registration uses the applicable Modelo 036 process.
Register with Social Security
Use Importass and align the start date with the real activity. Check the information needed about expected net earnings, coverage and contributions.
Set up compliant records
Agree invoice requirements, VAT treatment and periodic returns with a gestor, particularly for foreign clients or platform income.
Calendar changes and filings
Keep the registration receipts, note payment and filing dates, and update the authorities when your activity changes or ends.
Important details
Initial visa versus local alta
A self-employment visa application and registering an already authorised person as autónomo are different tasks.
Costs
Do not budget from an old flat-rate promise. Use your actual eligibility and the current Social Security calculation, with a reserve for tax and later adjustments.
See the bigger picture
Pair these practical steps with the Spain-wide essentials.
Sources & next steps
Reviewed 30 September 2026. This independent guide provides general information. Requirements, fees and office arrangements can change; the responsible authority’s current instructions control your application. Commercial service links explain products, not official rules.