I offer this as a practical guide to the paperwork involved in working as a self-employed translator in Spain. Most of it also applies to other liberal professions. My advice: first read up online—this page and the official sites of the Agencia Tributaria (Tax Agency) and the Seguridad Social (Social Security). Once you have the basics, go in person to their offices to clear up doubts and make sure you’ve understood your obligations. If you go at a quiet time, staff are usually helpful (if you’re unlucky, try another day or another office).
To begin working as a sole trader there are two mandatory, free procedures:
Register in the Business Census – IAE (Economic Activities Tax) with the Tax Agency.
Register with the Special Social Security Scheme for the Self-Employed (RETA).
© 2014 Alejandro Moreno Ramos, www.ingenierotraductor.com