Social security for foreigners in Spain is an issue of great relevance for those who move to the country in search of employment, studies or a new life. Understanding how the system works and knowing how to access the benefits available is essential to integrate properly and protect your rights.
In this updated guide for 2025, we explain clearly and in detail how social security works in Spain for citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area and third countries. We also tell you which benefits foreigners can apply for and what the requirements are for accessing them.
What Is Social Security for Foreigners in Spain?
Social security for foreigners in Spain is a public system that protects workers and residents in areas such as healthcare, unemployment, pensions, maternity, and disability. Access for foreigners is mainly regulated by Organic Law 4/2000 on the rights and freedoms of foreigners in Spain in Spanish Ley Orgánica 4/2000 sobre derechos y libertades de los extranjeros en España and by Royal Decree 1155/2024 in Spanish Real Decreto 1155/2024, which approves the Regulation of Organic Law 4/2000.
Who Can Access Social Security in Spain?
Spain’s Social Security system is open to foreigners who live and work legally in the country. However, eligibility varies depending on your nationality.
EU, EEA, and Swiss Citizens
If you’re from the European Union, the European Economic Area (Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein), or Switzerland, you have the same rights as Spanish citizens. You can:
- Work and register with Spanish Social Security.
- Obtain a Social Security affiliation number (NAF).
- Use public healthcare with the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or once registered as a resident.
- Apply for contributory and non-contributory benefits, provided you meet the criteria.
Example: A German student working part-time in Madrid can contribute to the system and access public healthcare like any Spanish worker.
Non-EU Citizens
Foreigners from outside the EU can also access social security for foreigners in Spain, provided they have a valid work and residence permit.
Key points include:
- You must apply for a Social Security number (NAF).
- You must be registered as self-employed (autónomo) or as an employee.
- If undocumented, access is limited to emergency care, maternity, and healthcare for minors.
Example: A Colombian national who regularizes their status through a work contract gains full access to benefits and protections.
Social Security Benefits Available for Foreigners in Spain
Foreigners who work and contribute legally are entitled to several types of social security benefits.
- Unemployment Benefits
If you lose your job involuntarily and have contributed for at least 360 days in the last 6 years, you may apply for unemployment (paro).
- Duration depends on contribution length.
- Applications are submitted to SEPE (State Public Employment Service).
- Maternity, Paternity & Temporary Disability
Legally employed foreigners can access:
- Paid maternity or paternity leave.
- Sick leave compensation for illness or work accidents.
Example: A Peruvian woman with a permanent contract is entitled to paid maternity leave if she’s up to date with contributions.
Contributory Pensions
Foreign workers can access:
- Retirement pension: With at least 15 years of contributions and legal retirement age.
- Permanent disability pension: For workers unable to continue their activity.
- Survivor’s benefits: For widows, widowers, and orphans.
If you’ve worked in several EU countries, Spain applies the totalization of contributions, summing all contribution periods to determine eligibility.
Key Steps to Access Social Security as a Foreigner
To join the social security system in Spain, follow these essential steps:
- Get your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number).
- Apply for your Social Security Number (NAF).
- Register as employed or self-employed.
- Request your health card at your local health center.
Tip: Get professional assistance to avoid mistakes. At Entre Trámites, we offer personalized support for every step of the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can undocumented foreigners access social security in Spain?
Generally no. They may receive emergency healthcare, maternity care, and services for minors, but not full social security benefits without legal residence.
Can international students access social security?
Yes, if they are registered as workers or have public or private health insurance. EU citizens can use the European Health Insurance Card.
How can I check my registration status in the system?
You can verify it via Social Security’s online platform using a digital certificate, SMS, or Cl@ve system.
Access to social security for foreigners in Spain is possible if you meet the legal requirements and are up to date with your contributions. The system is designed to protect all workers, regardless of their nationality, as long as they are legally resident and working in the country. Knowing your rights, being well informed and seeking professional advice are the keys to integrating safely and confidently into the Spanish system.
If you need personalised assistance, at Entre Trámites we offer administrative and tax consultancy services for the self-employed and SMEs. You can also contact us directly through this contact Form for us to call you, or if you prefer, you can schedule a free consultation or write to us on WhatsApp.
