Spain’s autónomos could pay zero social security for two years under new plan

Spain's self-employed workers' union, the National Federation of Associations of Self-Employed Workers (ATA), is proposing a package of changes aimed at reducing costs, simplifying paperwork, and improving protection for the country's self-employed population. The coalition, led by Lorenzo Amor, presents their 10 proposals ahead of Spain's elections on November 29th.

One of the main proposals is a zero-euro social security contribution for the first two years of self-employment, with the exemption extended to three years for those under 30, women starting a business after maternity, and workers earning below the minimum wage. Students under 30 running a business while studying would pay a proposed €30 monthly fee.

Established self-employed workers earning below the minimum wage would receive contribution discounts of 15-75% depending on income, funded through the state budget. Small businesses with annual turnover below €85,000 would be able to opt out of charging VAT, and businesses with cross-border transactions up to €100,000 could qualify for the VAT scheme.

The ATA also seeks changes to deductible business expenses, extending the unemployment subsidy to self-employed workers and improving maternity leave conditions. Self-employed caregivers would receive a full contribution discount, and planned contribution increases would be frozen until 2030. The ATA claims these measures would alleviate financial burdens for self-employed workers and improve their overall well-being.