Autónomo explained in English

If you work for yourself in Spain and invoice clients, you are probably working as an autónomo.

Definition

An autónomo is a self-employed person registered to carry out business activity in Spain. It is the Spanish equivalent of being a sole trader or freelancer.

When you see this term

You will see this term on registration forms, tax returns, invoicing software and when talking to your gestor.

Real-world example

A British web designer living in Alicante who invoices clients independently would typically register as an autónomo.

Common mistake

Many foreign business owners confuse autónomo with having a company. An autónomo is a person, not a legal entity. An SL (sociedad limitada) is a separate company structure.

What to ask your gestor

Your gestor can advise whether autónomo is the right structure for your business or whether an SL would be more appropriate.

How BillBee helps

BillBee is designed for autónomo invoicing — guided invoice creation, IVA and IRPF help, and clean exports for your gestor.