Your A1 Certificate Is Running Out—What Should You Do?

So, your A1 certificate is about to expire, and you’re thinking about staying in Spain on the Digital Nomad Visa instead of heading back to the UK, but you’re not sure what to do next? Don’t worry! There are a few options to consider, each with its own pros and cons. Let’s break them down so you can decide what works best for you.

Option 1: Try to Get an Extension

How this works: You ask HMRC if they’ll give you a little more time on your current A1. Usually you’ll need a solid reason, such as illness or some other major issue.

Pros:

• You get to keep things just as they are for a bit longer.

Cons:

• Extensions are only handed out for special situations (like illness) and, even then, they’re usually short.
• You’ll have to book another TIE appointment and apply for the DNV again when the extension runs out.
• Honestly, this simply isn't an option for most - we've only heard of two people ever being successful.

Best for: Those who require a bit of extra time due to exceptional circumstances.

Option 2: Head Back to the UK for a New A1 Certificate

How this works: Return to the UK for a short period and apply for a completely new A1 certificate.

Pros:

• You can keep your current work situation in place.

Cons:

• Leaving Spain breaks your “continuous residency”—so this is not the best idea if you want permanent residency (which means 5 straight years in Spain).
• There’s the cost (and hassle) of traveling, and you’ll be away from Spain for a while.
• Since you’ll be leaving Spain and starting fresh, you’ll need to begin anew with everything (e.g. new ACRO certificate, marriage certificates).

Best for: People who aren’t aiming for permanent Spanish residency and don’t mind a brief move back to the UK.

Option 3: Get Your Employer to Switch You to Spanish Social Security

How it works: Ask your employer if they’re willing to register and cover your Spanish social security (you can read more about this option here).

Pros:

• You can keep Beckham law perks.
• More job stability, less hassle changing contracts.
• You don’t have to become self-employed.

Cons:

• Spanish social security is pricey—employers pay 32% extra on your salary.
• Not all companies want to do this, so it depends on your employer.

Best for: Anyone, as long as your employer is on board (and they’re not asking you to take a pay cut). 

Option 4: Go Self-Employed (Autónomo)

How this works: Switch from being an employee to registering as self-employed in Spain. This is by far the most popular route for A1 holders.

Pros: 

• You’re in control of your own work and can stay in Spain with no breaks in residency.
• It opens up new business possibilities (e.g. you can take on a 2nd client).
• Private health insurance will no longer be a necessity (though it’s still nice to have).

Cons:

• You'll lose all of the perks of being an employee.
• You’ll now be responsible for your own social security and taxes (with more paperwork).
• You need to get your head around self-employment rules in Spain (note: MyTaxes can help!). 

Ideal for: Those who want to remain in Spain but have an employer unwilling to pursue option 3 above.

When Can You Apply? Here’s What to Know

Depending on how you’re changing your status, the process and timeframes of the new residency period are different: 

Timing Tips

• Renewing (Switching to Spanish Social Security Registration as an employee): You can apply anytime from 60 days before your A1 runs out up to 90 days after.
• New Application (Going self-employed): This window doesn’t apply, so if you are aiming to keep your residency continuous (i.e. if you want to apply for permanent residency after 5 years), you will need to make sure you apply comfortably ahead of the end date of your 1st residency.

So, What’s Your Next Move?

Think about these points before making your choice:

• Are you aiming for permanent residency in Spain? If yes, you’ll want to avoid any gap in your time here.
• How flexible is your employer? Will they go the extra mile and register to pay Spanish social security in order to keep you?
• Are you ready to give up the perks that come with being an employee? i.e. missing out on perks like paid time off and job security.
• How do you feel about managing self-employment paperwork and taxes? If that sounds stressful, take a look at MyTaxes—they’ll handle the paperwork, taxes, and compliance so you can focus on what you do best.

Most A1 certificate holders are choosing self-employment because it’s simple and lets them stay in Spain. That said, for the vast majority of employees, the Spanish social security option is the best choice.

Whatever path you pick, don’t leave it until the last minute! Some of these routes—especially the new applications—take a bit of planning. 

Need help figuring out your best move? Book a consultation with Move To Spain Guide for advice tailored to your situation. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way!