Hi, can anyone tell me what status is required in Spain to obtain a social security number, how to get one and what documents are required. I am applying for work and one of the questions I got is "do you have a social security number"?

thanks in advance

I see you're in Hondon de las nieves, so probably Alicante is your nearest trabajadores office, it's near the train station. You will need nie, padrón for address, residencia and pasaport for ID.

Ten minute job. Will post The exact office address when I'm in work on Tuesday as I don't have it here.

Lisa

Thanks for that. Is residencia essential for social security number? I have nie,padron,passport just not got residencia as yet.

Be aware that as soon as you get the number, you are liable to make contributions of around €250 a month, irrespective of whether you earn anything or not! And that will start the following month!

Hi

I certainly didn't need a residencia when I got my social security number in the Basque country a few weeks back. Or the padrón, actually.

OMG!! Thanks Tim. Catch 22. To get a job looks like I need a social security number, not got a job yet and will have to pay 250 euro - how does one pay that if not earning? Don't suppose there is anyway round it?

I got my job first, then once started got my Seg Soc number. I don't think it can be obligatory to have one to apply for a job.

That's great - thanks for that.

Its not necessary to go to Alicante, there is an office in Elche and one in Elda, addresses and directions are on www.seg-social.es.

So helpful - many thanks

Thing is Linda, i can't remember anything about the process. I remember queueing for my NIE within a week or two of arriving and starting work, but don't remember how the Soc Seg thing happened. Maybe it's automatic once your employer registers your contract and starts paying your contributions?

My employer's Gestor did mine for me - all done via the internet but on thinking about it had to supply a scanned copy of my NIE and passport. I do know that they now require to see the original passport.

Had the interview today. I was told that I have to go to social security office with my NIE/passport - residency not a requirement. When I asked about paying 250 euro a month (even if not working) I was told I would only pay whilst working!!

You had a job interview today? its a national holiday .

Sorry, I meant if you were self employed, didn't read it properly!