How to get a Social Security Number:

The process of getting a social security number is now very easy.

Simply go to any social security office, with your original passport and copy of the passport. You will have to fill in a form, which is in Spanish, but its quite easy as the normal questions are asked like, name, address, names of parents etc. They issue the number there and then and give you a temporary card. They send on the plastic card at their leisure. It is not necessary to have a job, or even a NIE to get a social security number.

Why do you need a Social Security Number?:

a.      You need a social security number to work inSpain. I am sure that you are aware that if you are self-employed you have to pay into the social security, but also if you are employed you pay and this should be deducted by your employer before payment.
 

b.      You are entitled to social security benefits, but pro rata to what you have paid
 

c.      You also are entitled to medical care i.e. you can sign on with your local doctor.
 

d.      You only have to pay if you are earning money in Spain, i.e. not on any pension from the UK. ** See our EU tax Section