residency

How does social security work for expats in Spain?

Spain's social security system (Seguridad Social) provides healthcare, pensions, unemployment benefits, and disability coverage.

Access depends on your status: EMPLOYED workers are automatically enrolled — employer and employee contribute monthly (approximately 30% employer, 6.35% employee).

After contributing, you gain access to full public healthcare and earn pension rights.

SELF-EMPLOYED (autónomos) must register and pay monthly contributions (minimum approximately €300/month), gaining the same benefits.

RETIREES from EU countries can transfer their S1 form to access Spanish public healthcare without contributing.

NON-WORKING RESIDENTS can access public healthcare after 1 year of legal residence by applying at their local health center with padrón certificate and residence proof.

For non-EU retirees or non-workers without S1 coverage, private health insurance is necessary until they qualify for public healthcare.

Spain has social security agreements with many countries, allowing pension contributions to be combined.

WOW-Estates connects clients with advisors who specialize in social security planning for expats.