Work and healthcare
Social Security Number (NUSS) in Spain
You need a Social Security number before your first day of work in Spain, before registering as self-employed and, in many cases, to access public healthcare. We request it for you and make sure the details match your other documents.
What it is
The Número de la Seguridad Social (NUSS, also called número de afiliación) is your personal number in the Spanish Social Security system. It is assigned once and stays with you for life. Employers need it to register you, and you need it to register as autónomo.
The request is made to the Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social, either online or at one of its offices, using form TA.1.
Who it is for
- People about to start their first job in Spain.
- Anyone registering as self-employed (autónomo).
- Students who will do paid internships or part-time work.
- Residents who need the number for healthcare registration.
- People who had a number years ago and cannot find it.
Documents usually needed
- Passport and NIE certificate, TIE or EU registration certificate.
- Form TA.1, completed and signed.
- In some cases, proof of address in Spain.
If your NIE and passport details do not match exactly, the request can be rejected. We check that first.
How we handle it
- Check your documents. We confirm that your identification documents are consistent and valid.
- Request. We prepare form TA.1 and file the request online or book an appointment at the Social Security office.
- Confirmation. We send you the document showing your number and explain how to give it to your employer or use it for autónomo registration.
Timeframes
Online requests are often answered within a few days, though this varies. In-person requests depend on appointment availability in your area.
Price
From 60 € + VAT. There is no official fee for the number itself.
Frequently asked questions
Can my employer request it for me?
Yes, employers can request it. Many prefer the employee to arrive with the number already assigned, especially smaller companies.
Do I need a NIE first?
In practice, yes. You will need a NIE or a residence document to request the number.
Does the number give me access to public healthcare?
Not by itself. Healthcare rights depend on your situation, such as being employed, self-employed or covered by an agreement. The number is one of the steps.
I already had a number years ago. Do I need a new one?
No. The number is for life. If you have lost it, we can help you recover it.
Other services
Get in touch
Tell us about your case
Send us a message with your nationality, where you live now and what you need. We reply on working days, usually within one business day, with the steps and a fixed quote.
- WhatsApp+34 673 374 567
- Phone+34 673 374 567
- Emailcontact@expatwelcome.com
- WhereOnline across Spain; in-person support in Barcelona