We have already covered this topic in several articles, but we would like, once again, to clarify something that, apparently, is only an insignificant detail, but which actually causes confusion in many newcomers to Spain and it is right that they know, especially if they are about to be hired by a company or to register as self-employed) the very subtle differences between these two acronyms (NUSS and NAF).
The Social Security Number (NUSS) and the Affiliation Number (NAF) are two unique, non-transferable codes used by Social Security to identify citizens receiving some type of benefit, such as a pension or widow’s pension. Although they are related and have some similarities, it is important to understand their differences and what they are used for.
Social Security is responsible for ensuring the rule of law in Spain and protecting citizens in potentially vulnerable situations. It is responsible for managing the various contributory pensions and carrying out procedures with the Administration, and for this it is necessary to know the identification codes that enable its management.
What is the NUSS?
The NUSS is a unique number that uniquely identifies each person in the Social Security system. It is a number that is individually and permanently assigned from the moment you begin your relationship with Social Security, whether for employment purposes, enrollment as a self-employed person, or other circumstances that require access to the services and benefits offered by this institution. The NUSS is indispensable for carrying out procedures and formalities related to Social Security, such as applying for benefits, accessing medical services, or updating personal data.
This identification number is mandatory for all citizens who are recipients of Social Security pensions, benefits or benefits, and is therefore necessary to collect retirement or disability pensions. The code can be found on the Social Security website or by calling the Administration’s toll-free number.
What is the NAF?
The NAF, also known as an affiliation number, is instead a specific number assigned to workers who make contributions to Social Security, whether they are employees or self-employed. The NAF is used to identify and manage the employment relationship between the worker and Social Security. Each worker has a unique NAF that accompanies him or her throughout his or her entire work history, regardless of any change in employment or occupation that he or she may undergo.
This code, consisting of 12 numbers, allows the administration to identify workers and is used to keep track of contributions made throughout their working lives so that they can access social rights, such as pensions. It is assigned when enrolling in the social security system (Seguridad Social).
There are several ways to find out your Social Security number. The code can be found on your health insurance card (SIP), pay stub, and can also be verified by contacting the Social Security Administration or the Social Security electronic site.
There is often confusion between the affiliation number (NAF) and the social security number (NUSS). It is important to clarify that these are two different items, as the NUSS is meant to identify all persons related to Social Security, such as workers, retirees, and the unemployed, among others. The NAF, on the other hand, is used exclusively to identify the self-employed, thus differing from the NUSS.
As indicated by the Social Security Administration, “the NUSS coincides with the Affiliation Number, as it is transformed at the moment when the citizen begins, for the first time, a work activity that determines his or her inclusion in the Social Security System, under any scheme.”
The most important thing to know is this: if you start working you will first need a NUSS: this NUSS, when already working, will change acronym (but the number will remain the same) and will be called NAF.
But above all, remember one very important thing: if you are an EU citizen, you can very well have your employment registered in Spain only with the NUSS and your national ID’ document (Passport or ID’ card), having, however, the obligation to obtain the NIE within 90 days and communicate it to the seguridad social social, since you will have had NUSS associated with a foreign ID before. So, you will NOT need the NIE at all (Although, in practice, most companies require it) to be employed, if you are an EU citizen, nor to obtain the NUSS. More information about this very important aspect, in our dedicated article: Working in Spain: is the NIE necessary? – Barcelona Global Service
BarcelonaGlobalService can take care of both getting you the NUSS, just with your national ID’ document, in maximum 5 working days and in a fully telematic way, as well as, of course, getting you the NIE and communicating it telematically to the Tesoreria General de la Seguridad Social within 90 days, in full compliance with Spanish regulations.
Need professional assistance in applying for a NUSS to start working? For more information, contact BarcelonaGlobalService at francesco@barcelonaglobalservice.com
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