Spain provides work visas for both EU and non-EU citizens, with several visa types available depending on your situation and purpose for entering Spain.
For EU citizens, the freedom of movement within EU countries means no visa is required for brief stays, like tourism. However, for stays longer than 90 days, you may need to register for an EU certificate of residence at a local police station in Spain.
Types of Work Visas in Spain
Here are the primary work visas available in Spain:
Employee Visa
The Employee Visa is a standard option for non-EU citizens, initially valid for one year with renewable terms if requirements are met.
Requirements for Employee Visa:
- Signed contract with a Spanish employer
- Job must be in a shortage occupation or lack suitable EU candidates
Application Process:
- Obtain a job offer from a Spanish employer.
- Employer applies for a work permit with the local Ministry of Labor office.
- Employer provides you with a copy of the work permit application.
- Submit your visa application at a local Spanish embassy with the permit copy.
- The Ministry of Labor processes the application and informs the embassy of the outcome.
- If approved, the Spanish embassy issues your work visa.
- The entire process can take up to 8 months.
Temporary Work Visa
Temporary work visas allow employment in Spain for a limited time, generally a few months.
Requirements for Temporary Work Visa:
- Signed contract with a Spanish employer
- Suitable accommodation
- Travel expenses covered; visa holders must return home once the contract ends
Application Process:
- Obtain a job offer from a Spanish employer.
- Employer requests a work permit at the local Ministry of Labor office.
- Submit your application with a copy of the work permit at a Spanish embassy.
- The Ministry of Labor processes the application and updates the embassy.
- Receive your visa from the embassy once approved.
EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card is for highly skilled professionals, allowing movement across EU countries for up to 90 days within 180 days.
Requirements for EU Blue Card:
- Advanced education or significant professional experience
- Valid passport, medical certificate, and clean criminal record
- Employment offer paying at least 1.5 times Spain’s average salary
- Entry to Spain within three months of visa issuance
Application Process:
- Secure a job offer in Spain.
- Employer provides proof that no EU citizen could fill the role.
- Submit an EU Blue Card application at a Spanish embassy.
- Provide necessary documentation including passport, medical certificate, and criminal record.
Self-Employed or Freelance Visa
This visa suits those looking to operate independently in Spain.
Requirements for Self-Employed/Freelance Visa:
- Business plan relevant to your intended work
- Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and the business
- Documentation of skills, experience, and client contracts
Application Process: Submit a work permit application with the necessary documents to the Spanish consulate in your home country.
Au Pair Visa
The Au Pair Visa allows individuals to work as live-in caregivers for families in Spain, handling childcare and housework. This visa is valid for one year and renewable for up to two years.
Requirements for Au Pair Visa:
- Aged 17 to 30
- Formal agreement with the host family, detailing work and compensation
- Ability to support yourself, with medical and criminal clearance
Application Process:
- Schedule a consulate appointment in your region.
- Submit necessary documentation and attend an interview.
Visa Costs for Spain
Visa costs vary by applicant’s nationality. For example, a self-employment visa application costs €248 for U.S. citizens and around €1447 for Canadian citizens.
Securing a work visa for Spain offers rewarding career opportunities, but the application process can be complex. Spain provides several work visa options, with processes and requirements tailored to support the employment of non-EU citizens in the country.
- UK Approves 45,000 Seasonal Worker Visas for 2025
- Working in Oman: Top Companies Offering Visa Sponsorship
- Japan Work Visa Process November 2024
- 6 Canadian Companies Offering LMIA-Exempt Work Permits
- Kuwait Work Visa Guide – November 2024
- Thailand Work Visa Process (November 2024): Requirements, Benefits & Application Steps
- How to Apply for a UK Work Permit Independently (November 2024 Update)
- Canada Work Visa Jobs for November 2024: Top Opportunities for Employment in Canada
- Canada Open Work Permit November 2024: Eligibility, Requirements, Benefits & Application Process
- List of Jobs in Australia Offering Visa Sponsorship for Foreign Nationals in November 2024
- Skilled Worker Opportunities in Luxembourg with Visa Sponsorship 2024 (€2000 to €8000 Monthly)
- Luxembourg Companies Offering Work Visa Opportunities in November 2024 (€15 Per Hour
- Germany, France, and Portugal Introduce New Visa Pathways for Skilled Workers in Tourism and Hospitality
Leave a Reply