How to Register as an Autónomo (Self-Employed) with Hacienda

A step-by-step guide to registering with the Spanish Tax Agency

Last updated: March 5, 2025

Once you've sorted your visa or residency status, it's time to take the crucial step of officially registering as an autónomo with the Spanish Tax Agency—Agencia Tributaria. This guide walks you through the process, from gathering your documents to submitting your registration form, so you can start your freelance journey on solid legal ground.

Before You Register

Before diving into the registration process, make sure you have the following items ready:

Essential Documents

  • A valid passport and your NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero)
  • Proof of your Spanish address (such as a rental contract or utility bill)
  • Your bank account details from your Spanish bank

Deciding Your Business Category

Determine your IAE code (Impuesto de Actividades Económicas) which classifies your business activity. For many freelancers, this simply means selecting the category that best describes your services.

If you're unsure, look for examples from others in your industry or consult a brief reference guide (more details can be found in our FAQ section).

Important

Having these documents and decisions in place will make filling out the registration form much smoother.

Modelo 036 vs. 037

When it comes to registering with Hacienda, you'll need to fill out a "declaración censal." There are two forms available:

Modelo 036

A comprehensive form suitable for more complex cases or those who need to declare multiple activities.

Modelo 037

A simplified version intended for most new freelancers. For the majority of expats just starting out, Modelo 037 is the recommended choice.

In most cases, if your freelance activities are straightforward, Modelo 037 will cover everything you need. It's easier to complete and less intimidating if you're new to Spanish tax systems.

Filling the Form

Here's a step-by-step breakdown of what you'll need to do when filling out your chosen form:

1Personal Information

Enter your full name, NIE number, and contact details exactly as they appear on your official documents.

2Business Details

  • Specify your chosen IAE code that corresponds to your professional activity.
  • Indicate your business address (this might be your home address if you work from home).

3Tax Regimes and Obligations

  • Select the tax regimes that apply to your situation, such as IRPF (personal income tax) and IVA (Value Added Tax).
  • If you plan to charge IVA on your services, make sure to indicate this; if you're working exclusively with foreign clients, note the applicable exemptions.

4Start Date of Activity

Provide the date when you intend to start your freelance activity—this is important for aligning your tax obligations with your business operations.

The form is designed to capture all necessary information in one go. Take your time and double-check your entries, as any mistakes might lead to delays or require corrections later on.

Submitting Your Registration

Once you've completed the form, it's time to submit your registration:

Online Submission

If you have your digital certificate or Cl@ve set up, you can submit the form online through the Agencia Tributaria website. This method is fast and convenient.

In-Person Submission

Alternatively, you can print the form and submit it in person at your local tax office. While this might be less convenient, it's an option if you run into any issues with digital submission.

Choose the method that works best for you. Most expats find the online submission method to be the quickest, provided they have already obtained their digital certificate or Cl@ve credentials.

Confirmation: What Happens Next

After submitting your registration, Hacienda will process your form and issue a confirmation. This usually includes:

What You'll Receive

  • Your CIF/NIF for the Business

    Once approved, you will receive a tax identification number for your business. This number is essential for all future interactions with the tax authorities.

  • Proof of Registration

    Keep the confirmation letter or digital receipt safe; you may need it when registering for Social Security or during tax filings.

This confirmation officially marks your transition into being recognized as a self-employed professional in Spain. It's the green light to start invoicing clients and managing your freelance income within the framework of Spanish law.

Place in the Process

This step is the first official milestone in your journey as an autónomo. With your registration complete, you're now legally set up to conduct business in Spain. Your next step will be to register for Social Security, which is equally important for ensuring you're covered and compliant with Spanish regulations.

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