Getting A Social Security Number In Spain
Anyone who works or studies in Spain is required to have a social security number.
This number (número de afiliación de la seguridad social) gives you access to the social security services and healthcare in Spain. Social security is generally paid for by the employer. Once you have been entered into the system the number will remain the same for life.
In order to obtain a social security number you will need to download and complete theTA-1 form. The form is not available in English, so you may need assistance from a Spanish speaker.
As well as form TA-1 you will need the following documentation:
- ID or passport plus photocopy
- Rental contract, employment contract if you have them plus photocopy
- NIE, if you have already got it (see Applying for Residence in Spain link for more information).
- Residency papers and visa if you are a non-EU citizen.
You can either apply online or in person:
If you are going to apply online for government services in Spain,you have to have a digital certificate. You can download this on to your PC to ensure secure communications between you and Spanish government websites. You can get more information anddownload a digital certificate from theReal Casa de la Moneda website.
Once you have your digital certificate, you can apply for a social security number online. To apply, go to the the social security websiteand clickTu Seguridad Social.Here, you can fill in the TA1 online and submit your identification and NIE number. The Spanish government have also recently releasedan appwhere you can apply as well.
You will need to go to your localTesorería de la Seguridad Socialto apply for your social security number. All cities and most large towns have social security offices. They are generally open Monday to Friday from 9am until 2pm. You can find your local office by following this link to thesocial security website. There is a list of offices or you can click onBuscar Centroson the same page.
You will generally need to to book an appointment (cita previa) and you will need to get there early to check-in. You are also likely to find that people do not speak English and so you should ensure you know the key Spanish terms or take a translator. Once you have presented your documents your social security number will be issued there and then.
As in many things in Spain arrangements can vary from office to office and some offices will not issue a social security number without a Spanish phone number, and if you intend to work, some may require to see your employment contract.
If you are considering moving to Spain see the recording of our recent Move To Spain Virtual Roadshowwebinar series to get all the information you need to plan your move.
If you are ready to make the move to Spain why not book yourself on one of ourExpat Network Discovery Toursfor an individually tailored tour of the area you plan to move to.Find out more.
To assist you in planning your move to Spaindownload our Guidecontaining all the information you will need to make the move:
FAQs
You will need to go to your local Tesorería de la Seguridad Social to apply for your social security number. All cities and most large towns have social security offices. They are generally open Monday to Friday from 9am until 2pm. You can find your local office by following this link to the social security website.
How to get Social Security number in Spain online? ›
Go to the SS website and select the options "Citizens > Affiliation and registration > Request the Social Security Number> “Obtener acceso" to start the application. Identify yourself with your “DNI or certificate” selecting your digital certificate, if you have one.
How much does it cost to get a Social Security number in Spain? ›
There is typically no cost to apply for a Spanish Social Security Number. However, there may be associated costs if you need to get documents translated, notarized, or couriered. Who can apply for a Spanish Social Security Number?
How long does it take to get a Spanish Social Security number? ›
By law, it can take up to 45 days for a social security number to be assigned, but usually you will receive it immediately.
Can you work without Social Security number Spain? ›
You will always need a SSN if you intend to participate in any of the following situations: Being employed at a company. Being self employed (autónomo) Being a student taking on a professional, paid internship.
How can a foreigner get a social security number? ›
We have a way for noncitizens to apply for Social Security number (SSN) cards as part of the immigration process. When you apply for your immigrant visa with the U.S. Department of State, you can also apply for an SSN card at the same time.
Can I get my Social Security in Spain? ›
Normally, persons who are not U.S. citizens may receive U.S. Social Security benefits while outside the U.S. only if they meet certain requirements. Under the agreement, however, you may receive benefits as long as you reside in Spain regardless of your nationality.
Does Spain tax US Social Security? ›
To live comfortably, especially in a Spanish city, expect to spend around €2,500 to €4,000 per month or more. Spain taxes the US Social Security payments of Spanish tax residents at progressive rates between 19% and 47%.
What is Social Security called in Spain? ›
If you're an employee, your employer will register you with the Spanish Social Security authorities (Tresorería General de la Seguridad Social – TGSS) and insurance scheme.
What is NIE in Spain? ›
The NIE is a personal, unique and exclusive number that is assigned to foreigners who, for economic, professional, or social reasons, are engaged in activities related to Spain and require identification in this country. It consists of nine digits: a letter, followed by a seven-digit number, and another letter.
If you are a non-EEA national (including British) and wish to stay in Spain for longer than 90 days, you will need a visa. You should apply for the visa that suits your purpose from a Spanish Consulate in your home country.
How long does it take a foreigner to get a social security number? ›
You should receive your SSN card within 2 weeks after we have everything we need to process your application, including verification of your immigration document with the USCIS. If we are unable to immediately verify your immigration document with the USCIS, it may take 2 additional weeks to receive your card.
What documents do I need to get an NIE number in Spain? ›
What documents do I need to get an NIE number?
- your passport and a copy of the passport (all pages)*
- two passport-sized photos.
- a completed application form – EX-15 Form (see below)**. ...
- a certificate of residence – (you can receive this from the council of the municipality where you live)
If you want to live and work in Spain as a non-EU/EEA citizen, you will need a residence and work permit (visado de trabajo y residencia). There are various types of work permits for different types of jobs and lengths of employment.
Can I go to Spain without a job? ›
Can You Move to Spain Without a Job? The short answer is yes, there are definitely ways to move to Spain without a job. That being said, there are a lot of criteria that you need to hit to be eligible. Of course, as it always does with moving abroad, it comes down to which visas you're eligible for.
Can non citizens work in Spain? ›
American citizens wanting to study, reside, or work in Spain must obtain the appropriate visa from the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in their state/country of last residence. After the visa has been issued, foreigners have three months to apply for the corresponding permit with the Spanish authorities in Spain.
Can you get your Social Security number online? ›
Apply for a Social Security number
If you're in the U.S., you can apply online, then go to a local Social Security office to provide your documentation. Once your application is approved, you'll receive a Social Security card with your number on it by mail within 14 days.
Can I access SSN online? ›
A personal my Social Security account is an online service you can use to check your Social Security information and conduct some business with us. You can now create your new my Social Security account through our credential service providers, Login.gov or ID.me.
Can I get proof of SSN online? ›
Our customers can get an instant verification letter online with a personal my Social Security account. Also, they may continue to call us toll-free to request a letter by mail.
Can you find SSN online? ›
No, there is no way to search for your Social Security number online. You'll need to search through your personal records to find your SSN or request a new Social Security card. How can I look up my SSN? Your Social Security number might be on some of your tax records or financial documents.
