If you’re a digital nomad, freelancer (autónomo), or simply living in Spain, there may come a time when you have difficulties paying your social security (Seguridad Social) via the usual direct debit method (e.g., your account is blocked or funds are insufficient at the time of debit). Fortunately, as of January 15, 2015, there’s an alternative route: paying by credit or debit card.

1. Key Points to Know

1. Card Payments Allowed Since 2015
   You can make social security payments using a debit or credit card if you’ve missed the regular (reglamentary) payment window. Such payments are still considered “voluntary” but are technically made after the standard due date. Even if your debt has reached the “reclamación” (claim) stage, you can still settle it via card.
2. Types of Debt You Can Pay by Card
   By using the official service, you can settle a wide range of debts, including:
   • Debt settlements
   • Debt claims
   • Settlement reports
   • Enforcement orders and enforcement proceedings
   • The portion of payments in a deferral (postponement) request that cannot be deferred, or at least one-third of the deferrable debt in certain scenarios under 250,000 euros
   • Instalments of returned undue benefit payments
3. No Extra Fees
   This service is free – no additional commission or service charge.

2. Step 1: Obtain the Payment Document

Before you can pay anything, you’ll need the payment document. This document (often in PDF form) provides you with a crucial reference number and bank account (IBAN) required to process your card payment.

1. Access the Online Portal
   • Go to:
     Obtain a Payment Document (Seguridad Social Portal)
2. Enter Your Details
   • Click Obtener Acceso and select Option 1 (often the simplest).
   • Provide your NAF/NUSS (social security number).
   • Choose the correct regime code (commonly 0521 for many autónomos).
   • Fill in the relevant date range (e.g., 01/2024 for January 2024).
   • Download the PDF that contains your case/reference number and account number/IBAN.

Make sure to confirm all details (especially the reference and account numbers). You’ll use these to complete the card payment.

3. Step 2: Pay by Debit or Credit Card

Once you have the payment document, you’re ready to pay online with your card.

1. Access the Official Payment Link
   • Go to:
     https://mediospago.bbvaglobalnet.com:444/
   • This is a secure service used by Spain’s Treasury General of Social Security (TGSS). Always verify the web address to ensure you’re using the correct platform.
2. Enter the Required Details
   You will need to provide:
   • Surname(s) and first name of the debtor (or registered company name).
   • NIF/NIE of the debtor.
   • Case or reference number, matching the PDF you downloaded.
   • Account number/IBAN shown on your payment document (including all digits).
   After entering these details, verify that what appears on screen matches your downloaded payment document.
3. Initiate the Payment
   • Click Pay at the bottom of the screen.
   • Follow the security prompts from your bank or card issuer (this may involve entering a secret key sent by SMS, a PIN + NIF, PIC, or another secret ID).
   • Once the transaction processes successfully, a payment receipt or confirmation will appear on your screen.

4. Proof of Payment

Print or Save Your Receipt
This on-screen confirmation has the same validity as a payment made directly at the TGSS. The receipt typically displays:

• Bank account/IBAN into which you’ve paid.
• Debtor’s name and NIF/NIE.
• Reference or case number.
• Unique Transaction ID (for tracking).
• Amount paid.
• Date and time of the payment.
• Transaction result (e.g., “The payment has been made successfully”).

If you wish, you can later request an official certificate of payment from TGSS. They will issue it once you present the proof of payment.

5. When Is the Payment Considered Officially Made?

The payment is recognized when funds enter the restricted TGSS account. Generally, this occurs 24 to 48 hours after you complete the online transaction. If there’s a delay beyond 48 hours, the payment date is the day the deposit actually hits the TGSS restricted account. Keep a close eye on your records if timing is critical (e.g., if you’re paying close to a final deadline).

6. How much time do I have to pay?

Usually not much, so act as soon as you can.

Final Tips & Reminders

• If you need help or have doubts Call the Social Security at 901 50 20 50 or 915 41 02 91.
• If you have a gestor or a professional who handles your tax/Social Security matters, they can also guide you on completing the payment.
• Check All Figures: Double-check that the amount, reference number, and personal details match your payment document precisely.
• Late (But Voluntary) Payments: Remember that paying by card applies to debts outside the standard payment window, but still before the claim becomes enforceable by stricter means although some claim-stage debts can also be settled by card.
• Keep Your Receipt: Whether you print it or save it as a PDF, the proof of payment is essential for any future queries or audits.
• No Extra Cost: This service is free; avoid any third parties that may charge a fee for doing the same.

Paying your overdue social security contributions or debts by card can be a lifesaver if direct debit fails or your bank account is temporarily unavailable. By following the steps above obtaining the proper document from the Seguridad Social portal and paying through the secure BBVA platform you can quickly bring your payments up to date, avoid further penalties, and have a clear record of each transaction.