Alta censal y alta en trabajo autónomo
Register as self-employed for tax and Social Security
Register a lawful self-employed activity with AEAT and TGSS before starting work, using the current tax census and RETA processes.
- Who it is for
- EU and non-EU citizens
- Legal deadline
- before the activity starts
- How long it takes
- registration timing depends on AEAT/TGSS channel; must be completed before activity begins
- Cost
- tax registration free; Social Security contributions depend on current net-income rules
- Where
- Online · AEAT / TGSS Importass
Steps
- Confirm that the person is legally entitled to carry out self-employed work in Spain.
- Register the activity with AEAT using Modelo 036/Censos WEB before operations start.sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es
- Complete the TGSS/RETA autónomo alta through Importass before starting the activity and select/request any applicable reduction during the process.portal.seg-social.gob.es
That is the whole procedure
If you would rather go through yours with someone, describe it to NEXO first. You will find out what applies to you, and whether you need a person.
What to bring
- Identification/NIF/NIE data and the activity details needed for Modelo 036.sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es
- Expected activity/income and Social Security information required by the current Importass alta flow.portal.seg-social.gob.es
What the official sources say
Modelo 037 was abolished from 3 February 2025; current census registration uses Modelo 036.sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es
Autónomo alta must be requested before the activity starts; late registration can affect reductions and create additional contribution/penalty consequences.portal.seg-social.gob.es
There is no general €600,000 turnover rule making VAT optional for small freelancers; IVA depends on the activity and applicable tax rules/exemptions.sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es
What we see in practice
NEXO's own observations. They are not official information and carry no source.
- Registration sequencing matters. Do not assume a late correction preserves a contribution reduction that should have been selected during timely alta.
Questions people ask
Which census form do I use?
Modelo 036. Do not use the old Modelo 037.sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es
How much is the monthly autónomo contribution?
It depends on the current net-income contribution framework and any valid reduction; do not quote one universal amount.portal.seg-social.gob.es
Can I be employed and self-employed?
Yes, pluriactividad can exist if the respective work/registration conditions are met.portal.seg-social.gob.es
What gets it refused or delayed
- The person tries to register after starting activity or provides inconsistent activity/identity data.portal.seg-social.gob.es
Does any of this sound like you?
- The person's right to self-employed work, tax treatment or regulated-profession requirements are unclear.
Cases like these need someone to look at the details. Describe yours to NEXO and we will tell you what applies and what to do next.