According to Law 14/2013 of September 27, 2013, to support entrepreneurs and their internationalization, a specific regime for digital nomads was included in 2022. The concept of "digital nomad" refers to people who work remotely and have the flexibility to live in different parts of the world while performing their work telematically, i.e. through the internet. Below, I will explain how the social security registration is handled according to the agreement that Spain has with some countries.
- Application of the ConventionBilateral agreements establish rules to avoid duplication of contributions and to ensure social protection for migrant workers. Each agreement details the social security rights and obligations for citizens of both countries.
- Determination of Applicable LegislationThe first step is to determine under which social security system the posted person must contribute. This is generally decided according to the type of work activity (employed or self-employed), the duration of the posting and other criteria specific to the agreement.
- Certificates of CoverageCertificate of Coverage: To ensure that the worker's social security rights are respected, a certificate of coverage is issued. This document, like Form E-101 in the EU, certifies that the worker remains subject to the social security legislation of the country of origin during his or her temporary posting to the treaty partner country.
- Contributions and BenefitsDuring the period covered by the certificate of coverage, the worker continues to contribute to the social security system of the country of origin. This ensures that he/she maintains his/her rights to benefits such as retirement, unemployment, medical care, etc., in accordance with his/her country's regulations.
- Renewal and MaintenanceCertificates of coverage are usually limited in duration, so it is important to renew them if the posting extends beyond the period initially foreseen. It is also crucial to keep all records and communications up to date with the relevant social security authorities to avoid problems or duplication of contributions.
The failure to update bilateral social security agreements presents problems for digital nomads, as they do not provide for this figure do not contemplate this figureThis generates confusion and complications as the rules applicable to their contributions and rights to benefits are not clear.
