Employment taxation

Your tax obligations while living and working in Spain

Whether you're an employee or self-employed, we help you understand and meet your tax obligations in Spain.

Income tax for employees IRPF

Personal Income Tax 19–54%

Progressive rates combining a state scale and a regional one: the top marginal rate ranges from ≈45% in Madrid up to 54% in the Valencian Community, depending on residence. Annual tax filings are required when income surpasses specified thresholds. The Spanish tax year runs January through December.

Social Security Contributions

Employee contribution ≈6.4%

Of gross salary, for pensions, healthcare and unemployment, including the worker's share of the Intergenerational Equity Mechanism (MEI).

Employer contribution ≈30.5%

Paid by employers on behalf of workers. The MEI, in force since 2023, rises gradually each year (0.9% in 2026, split between employer and employee).

Special expatriate regime Newcomers

Flat rate 24%

Newly arrived workers may qualify for a special flat-rate regime, taxed at 24% on Spanish-source income up to €600,000, for a period of six years. See the Beckham Law →

Self-employed (autónomos) Independent work

Quarterly income tax payments

Self-employed individuals face the same progressive rate structure as employees, via quarterly payments.

VAT (IVA) 21%

Quarterly VAT returns filed using form 303, at the standard rate.

Social Security contribution ≈€205–607/month

Since 2023, self-employed contributions are set across 15 real net-income brackets rather than a flat fee: the minimum monthly payment ranges from ≈€205 (lower income) to ≈€607 (higher income). Newly self-employed workers can access a flat €80/month rate during their first year.

When are you a tax resident? Residency

The 183-day rule

Individuals become tax residents after spending more than 183 days annually in Spain, or when their main economic interests are based in Spain.

Recommendation: your tax situation as an employee, self-employed professional or expatriate can vary significantly depending on your circumstances — we help you determine your exact regime and obligations. Rates and contributions current as of 2026.

Moving to live and work in Spain?

We help you understand your tax position from day one, whether you're an employee, self-employed or an expatriate.

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