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Spanish B1.38.2 Self-employed vs. employee: advantages and challenges

Discover the differences between being self-employed and employed in Spain and how Social Security helps protect workers.

Cultura: Autónomo vs. empleado: ventajas y desafíos

Descubre las diferencias entre ser autónomo y empleado en España y cómo la Seguridad Social ayuda a proteger a los trabajadores.

B1 Spanish State structure Spain

Level: B1

Module 6: Vivir en el extranjero (Living abroad)

Lesson 38: Mudanza (Relocating)

Teaching guidelines +/- 10 minutes

Audio and video

Audio
Audio with translations

Reading and listening exercise

En España, muchos trabajadores enfrentan la decisión de ser autónomos o empleados. Ser empleado implica un contrato y beneficios como la Seguridad Social, vacaciones y horas extra pagadas. Los autónomos, por otro lado, trabajan por cuenta propia y gestionan su empleo de forma independiente. Empleados están cubiertos por el régimen general de la Seguridad Social. Los autónomos cotizan al RETA, con menos prestaciones en materia de desempleo e incapacidad temporal. Para trabajar en España como extranjero, se necesita un NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero). Esto aplica tanto para empleados como para autónomos.

Translation

In Spain, many workers face the decision of being self-employed or employees. Being an employee implies a contract and benefits like Social Security, holidays, and paid overtime. The self-employed, on the other hand, work on their own account and manage their employment independently. Employees are covered by the general Social Security scheme. The self-employed contribute to RETA, with fewer benefits in terms of unemployment and temporary incapacity. To work in Spain as a foreigner, you need an NIE (Foreigner Identification Number). This applies to both employees and self-employed.

Exercise 1: Discussion questions

Instruction: Discuss the questions after listening to the audio or reading through the text.

  1. ¿Cuáles son las principales diferencias entre ser empleado y autónomo en España?
  2. What are the main differences between being employed and self-employed in Spain?
  3. ¿Prefieres un trabajo estable o con más libertad?
  4. Do you prefer a stable job or one with more freedom?