How to apply for a Social Security affiliation number in Spain
The Social Security membership number is a unique identifier that all people in Spain must have in order to work and access social and health services. This number is essential for any work activity, as it allows the monitoring of contributions and benefits associated with Social Security.
Applying for a Social Security number may seem like a complicated process, but with the right information it can be done efficiently and quickly.
What is the Social Security affiliation number?
The Social Security affiliation number (NAF) is a personal and unique number assigned to each citizen or resident who is going to work or receive Social Security benefits in Spain. This number is vital for monitoring workers’ contributions, as well as for access to unemployment, retirement, disability and health care benefits.
Who needs a membership number?
- Employees: Anyone who works for a company in Spain.
- Self-employed workers (Autónomos): People who start a professional or business activity.
- Interns: If the internship is paid, they will also need a NAF.
- Foreign citizens: Non-national residents who are going to work in Spain.
- Beneficiaries of social benefits: People who apply for Social Security benefits.
Documentation required to apply for the NAF
Before applying for the membership number, it is important to gather the necessary documentation. Generally, the required documents include:
- DNI or NIE: National Identity Document for Spanish citizens or Foreigner Identification Number for non-Spanish residents.
- Passport: For foreigners who do not yet have a NIE.
- Form TA.1: Official form for requesting the membership number.
- Employment contract: If the number is requested to start a job.
- Residence permit: For non-EU citizens.
Procedure for requesting membership number
In-Person Application
Office location: Find the Social Security office closest to your place of residence or work.
Appointment: In many offices, it is necessary to request an appointment through the Social
Security website or by calling the customer service phone number.
Submission of documents: Bring the necessary documentation to the appointment. Make sure you have both the originals and the copies.Fill out form TA.1: This form must be completed and presented. The office staff can help if you have any questions.
Receiving the NAF: Once the documentation has been reviewed, the membership number will be assigned and delivered at the time or it will be sent by mail.
Online Application
- Access to the portal: Enter the official Social Security website (www.seg-social.es).
- Registration and Permanent Key: If you are not registered, you must do so and obtain a permanent key. This may require an identity verification process.
- Filling out the online form: Complete the TA.1 form in its digital version, attaching the digital copies of the necessary documents.
- Submission and confirmation: Submit the form and wait for confirmation of registration. The NAF will be sent electronically or by post.
Application through the Company
In many cases, companies can apply for the NAF on behalf of the worker. This process is common for new employees who do not yet have an affiliation number.
- Collect documents from the worker: DNI or NIE, passport and any other relevant documentation.
- Fill out the TA.2/S form: This is the form that companies use to apply for the affiliation of new workers.
- Submit the application: The company can submit the application online or in person at a Social Security office.
- Receiving the NAF: Once the application has been processed, the worker will be provided with their affiliation number.
Frequently Asked Questions about NAF
How long does the process take?
The time can vary. At a Social Security office, the NAF can be assigned the same day. If you apply online, it can take several days for confirmation.
Is it necessary to renew the NAF?
No, the NAF is a unique number that is assigned for life and does not need to be renewed.
The Social Security membership number is essential for anyone who works or receives benefits in Spain. Applying for it may seem like a complex process, but by following the appropriate steps and with the necessary documentation, it can be a simple and quick task.
At Asesoría Orihuela Costa we offer you the best advisory service for companies and individuals. If you need to carry out any procedure with the Tax Agency or with Social Security, our team is always ready to help you. In addition, we put at your disposal the best team specialized in financial and tax advice for companies and self-employed workers.
