How to become self-employed in Málaga (2026)
Cost
€80.00
Monthly Tariff Plan fee (first year). Free registration process.
Time at office
0 minutes (100% online procedure)
Estimated time
24-48 hours for effective registration
Quick summary
Complete guide for registering as a self-employed individual in Málaga, Andalucía. Registration with Tax Office and Social Security, Tariff Plan, and support programs from Andalusia for entrepreneurs in 2026.
Required documents
-
Digital Certificate or Electronic DNI
Essential for all tax and social security online procedures. Alternatively, you can use Cl@ve.
-
Bank Account Number (IBAN)
For direct debiting of self-employed monthly contributions in the RETA.
-
Censal Registration with Tax Office (Form 036 or 037)
Notify the tax authority about the start of your economic activity and select the corresponding IAE chapter.
-
Registration in the RETA
Enrollment as a Self-employed Individual under the Social Security through Importass portal.
Step by step
- 1
Tax Office Registration (Form 036 or 037)
Go to official siteYou must notify the tax authority of the start of your economic activity. Choose the appropriate IAE chapter for your business type. Form 037 is a simplified version used by most individual self-employed individuals.
!Expert tip
"You can file it online with a digital certificate or Cl@ve. If you are unsure which chapter to choose, the AEAT has an online activity search tool on its website."
- 2
Social Security Registration (RETA)
Go to official siteYou have up to 60 natural days from starting your business to complete this. Do it through the Importass portal of the Social Security. If you register on the first day of the month, you avoid paying a prorated contribution.
!Expert tip
"When registering in Importass, check the box to apply for the Tariff Plan at 80€/month. It is automatically available for new self-employed individuals without previous activity in the last two years."
- 3
Consult Andalucía Emprende Support Programs
Go to official siteThe Junta de Andalucía manages the Andalucía Emprende program, present in all Andalusian provinces. Offers a network of CEEIs (European Business and Innovation Centers), coworking spaces, personalized advisory support, and free training. Also exists the UPTA Andalucía program for self-employed individuals in vulnerable situations. Key organization: Andalucía Emprende / Junta de Andalucía.
!Expert tip
"Many regional support programs are compatible with the national Tariff Plan. Check Andalucía Emprende / Junta de Andalucía before starting your business to avoid missing application deadlines."
- 4
Business License or Pre-notification (if applicable)
Go to official siteIf you are setting up a physical location in Málaga, you may need to apply for the appropriate license or declaration with the City Hall. For office-based or professional activities without public access, typically no such license is required.
!Expert tip
"For most home-office or non-public-access professional services, you generally do not need a municipal business license. Check with the City Hall if you have any doubts."
Offices and service points - Malaga
Tax Office — Online Service (available nationwide)
Online service available at sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Tariff Plan of 80€ apply for self-employed individuals?
Can I combine unemployment with becoming self-employed?
What specific support programs does Andalucía offer to self-employed individuals?
What IAE chapter should I choose?
When do I start paying self-employment contributions?
Official sources and useful links
- Social Security — Importass (RETA registration)
- Tax Office — Censal Registration (Form 037)
- Andalucía Emprende / Junta de Andalucía — Support programs in Andalusia
This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.