In Spain, there are two main ways of working. You can either work as an employee (por cuenta ajena) or be self-employed (por cuenta propia or autónomo). German nationals, like all other EU citizens, are subject to the same conditions as Spanish nationals and must therefore meet the same requirements.

In general, you can start working at any time. However, in order to avoid problems when starting your employment, it is advisable to complete the following administrative procedures beforehand:

1. Apply for your N.I.E. The N.I.E. is the Spanish Foreigner Identification Number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero), which is similar to the identification number on a Spanish identity card and is required for almost all administrative procedures. The following article provides detailed information on how to apply for your N.I.E.: read the article

2. Register with the Spanish municipal register of residents (Padrón Municipal): read the article

3. Apply for a Spanish Social Security number. You can apply for your Spanish Social Security number in person at the Provincial Directorate of the General Treasury of Social Security (Dirección Provincial de la Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social) corresponding to your place of residence. If you have an electronic signature (firma electrónica), you can also complete this administrative procedure conveniently from home via the Social Security website: Link

4. Once you start working, your employer will register you with the Spanish Social Security system using your Social Security number. From that moment onwards, you will be entitled to the same Social Security benefits as any other employee. In order to access healthcare and medical services, for example, it is advisable to arrange for the corresponding Spanish health card.

 

Good to know:

With an electronic signature, you can carry out a wide range of administrative procedures with the Social Security authorities, employment services or tax authorities conveniently from home. In relation to starting a new job, for example, you can download your employment history report (Informe de Vida Laboral), which allows you to check whether your employer has properly registered you with the Social Security system or whether your employment has not been officially declared. Link to the Employment History Report (Vida Laboral)

Our law firm will be pleased to analyse your individual situation and represent you before the Spanish authorities, your employer and the Spanish courts. If you require further information or have any specific questions regarding this matter, please feel free to contact us by email or telephone.

Author: 

Christoph Sander
Lawyer and Tax Advisor
CEO, Partner, Director
info@sspartners.es
Tel: (+34) 951 12 13 06
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