Find your way around Spain’s social security system. Learn about who contributes, how much, and the many benefits.
Anyone who is working in Spain must typically register and pay into social security, whether you are a Spanish citizen or an expat with a work visa. Workers in Spain pay higher social security contributions than the OECD average. That said, these payments provide access to many essential benefits, including free Spanish healthcare and retirement. Use this guide to navigate the system, with sections on:
Who must pay social security in Spain?
If you work in Spain, you must pay Spanish taxes and register with the Spanish Social Security service. This registration is valid for life. You also pay contributions into the Spanish social security system in order to access its benefits. As a general rule, you must be employed and be paying contributions in order to be covered for illness, injuries, and accidents at work, unemployment, and maternity and paternity leave.
Currently there are approximately 800,000 independent workers registered in Portugal. Being your own boss has its advantages. However, you need to pay careful attention since the contributions and tax payments are made by you, rather than by a company.
New Social Security contributory scheme for independent workers The revamped Social Security contributory plan for sole traders has been passed into law. Under the new regime, the deductions applicable to the self-employed will be based on the average income of the previous trimester, rather than the preceding year. The first declaration under the new rules will take place in January 2019, based on the earnings of the last quarter of 2018. According to the diploma, until the changes take effect, the contribution base established in October 2017 will continue to apply. Keep in mind that the following rules will only start as of January 2019, not in 2018.
The social security ( segurança social or caixa) system in Portugal is administered by the state and, in principle, applies to all individuals working in Portugal, either as employees or self-employed.
The social security ( segurança social or caixa) system in Portugal is administered by the state and, in principle, applies to all individuals working in Portugal, either as employees or self-employed.
