El self-employment in Spain has found in the foreign community a fundamental pillar for its expansion. According to recent data, this group not only constitutes the 14,26% of the total number of self-employed workers, but has also been the main driver of year-on-year growth, concentrating an impressive 89,6% of the net increase, which translates into 29.467 new self-employed workers.
This notable increase underscores the vitality and importance of foreign entrepreneurs in the national economy. Self-employment often becomes their primary avenue for developing a professional career. However, their contribution is undermined by the systemic barriers they face. Union of Associations of Self-Employed Workers and Entrepreneurs (UATAE) has shown that current policies are not up to their needs.
In the words of María José Landaburu, general secretary of UATAE, “Foreign self-employed workers are a key element for the present and future of our country, but their full integration requires a decisive effort on the part of the administrations.”. Landaburu adds that “inclusive policies that recognize their specific difficulties and provide them with adequate resources for their professional development".
The obstacles are varied and significant, including the complexity of administrative procedures, difficulty accessing financing, a lack of specialized training, and a social protection system that often fails to consider migration specificities. Therefore, the UATAE urges authorities to implement specific and tailored measures. Proposals include the creation of personalized advisory programs, financial aid lines with simplified criteria, and training plans focused on digital skills.
The Secretary General of UATAE also emphasized that «The cultural diversity and international experience they bring enrich our productive fabric"This fosters innovation and job creation in strategic sectors." For Landaburu, "investing in them is not only a matter of social justice, but also an economic opportunity for the entire country."
Finally, the association reiterates the urgency of a adapted social protection that guarantees the necessary coverage in health, benefits, and labor rights. Landaburu concludes that "Only with an inclusive and committed system will we be able to ensure that these workers can consolidate their projects and contribute sustainably to economic and social development.".
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