Work permits in Spain

Spain attracts thousands of foreign professionals every year due to its dynamic economy, high standard of living and favourable climate. To work legally in Spain, foreign nationals need to obtain a work permit.

1. Types of work permits in Spain

There are different types of work permits in Spain, each of which is designed for specific categories of foreign workers:

• Work and residence permit: This type of permit is intended for foreigners who plan to work in Spain. The permit is issued for one year with the possibility of renewal.
• Self-employed work permit: There is a special self-employed work permit for foreigners who wish to start their own business or work for themselves in Spain.
• EU Blue Card: For highly qualified professionals, there is an EU Blue Card that allows you to work in Spain and other EU countries.

2. The process of obtaining a work permit

The process of obtaining a work permit in Spain begins with a job offer from a Spanish employer. The following steps must then be completed:

• Filing: The employer must apply for a work permit at the local office of the Spanish Ministry of Labour on behalf of the candidate.
• Obtaining authorisation: Once the application has been approved, the candidate must apply for a work visa at the Spanish consulate or embassy in their home country.
• Registration in Spain: Upon arrival in Spain, the worker must register with the social services and obtain a foreign identification number (NIE).

3. Specifics for different categories of employees

Different categories of foreign workers may face special requirements when applying for a work permit:

• Students: International students wishing to work in Spain must obtain a permit that limits the number of working hours and is combined with studies.
• Highly qualified professionals: The EU Blue Card is available for this category, requiring high qualifications and a job offer with a corresponding salary.
• Seasonal workers: There are also special permits for seasonal work, which are issued for a specific period of time.

Obtaining a work permit in Spain is a process that requires careful preparation and an understanding of Spanish legislation on the employment of foreign nationals. Timely submission of all necessary documents and close co-operation with your future employer will speed up and simplify the process of obtaining a permit. It is advisable to consult a lawyer or specialised agency in advance to ensure that you meet all the requirements and successfully obtain a work permit.

Who can work in Spain?

Spain is an attractive country for foreign workers due to its diverse economic opportunities and high quality of life. However, candidates need to fulfil certain legal requirements in order to work legally in this country.

1. Citizens of the European Union (EU)

Citizens of EU member states, as well as European Economic Area (EEA) countries and Switzerland, have the right to freedom of movement and employment in Spain without the need for a work visa. However, they must register with the local police and obtain a certificate of registration to prove their right to reside and work.

2. Citizens of non-EU countries

For non-EU nationals, the process of finding employment in Spain is more complicated. They must obtain a work visa and a work permit, which usually starts with a job offer from a Spanish employer. These documents need to be processed before entering Spain. There are different types of work visas, depending on the qualifications, sector and intended length of stay.

3. Students

International students studying in Spain can work up to 20 hours per week, provided that the work does not interfere with their studies. They will also need a work permit to do so. Upon completion of their studies, students can apply to change their status to full-time work.

4. Researchers and academics

Special categories of visas and permits are available for researchers and academics to simplify the process of obtaining the right to work on scientific and academic projects in Spain.

5. Seasonal workers

For seasonal work, especially in agriculture and tourism, there are special programmes that allow foreign nationals to obtain temporary work permits. These programmes are strictly regulated and require the employer to apply in advance for a permit to employ foreigners.

6. Entrepreneurs and investors

Spain offers visas for entrepreneurs and investors who want to do business in the country. In order to obtain such a visa, it is necessary to prove the existence of significant investment capital and a business development plan.

Legal employment in Spain requires a thorough understanding and compliance with local legislation. Depending on the country of origin, qualifications and type of work, the process of obtaining a work permit can vary considerably. It is advisable to seek the assistance of professional migration agents or lawyers to ensure compliance with all requirements, which will help to avoid potential difficulties and speed up the process of obtaining a work permit in Spain.

How to apply for a Spain work visa

For foreigners wishing to work in Spain, the first and most important step is to obtain a work visa. The process of obtaining a work visa may seem complicated, but with the right approach and a clear understanding of the requirements, it can be made much easier.

1. Receiving a job offer

The first step to obtaining a work visa to Spain is to have an official job offer from a Spanish employer. This offer must be confirmed by the Spanish Ministry of Labour, which is a guarantee that the employer has not been able to find a suitable candidate for the position within the country.

2. Applying for a national visa

Once the job offer has been approved, the next step is to apply for a national D visa. The documents for the visa are submitted in person at the Spanish consulate or embassy in the applicant’s country of residence. The basic documents include:

• Completed visa application form;
• A valid passport;
• Photographs that meet the requirements for visa documents;
• Health insurance covering the entire period of stay in Spain;
• Certificate of no criminal record;
• A medical certificate that the applicant does not suffer from diseases dangerous to public health.

3. Awaiting a decision

Once all the necessary documents have been submitted, the application process begins, which can take from several weeks to several months. During this time, the consulate may request additional documents or arrange an interview with the applicant.

4. Arrival in Spain and registration

After obtaining the visa, the applicant can enter Spain. Within the first 30 days after arrival, it is necessary to apply for an Alien Card (TIE) and a Foreign Identification Number (NIE). These documents are mandatory for legal residence and work in the country.

5. Registration with social services

The final step is to register with Spain’s social services to access health care and social security.

Obtaining a work visa to Spain requires careful preparation and compliance with all procedural steps. It is important to familiarise yourself with the requirements in advance and ensure that the documents you submit are complete and accurate. Seeking the assistance of professionals specialising in migration law can make the process much easier and increase the chances of successfully obtaining a visa.

Work visa requirements in Spain

For foreign nationals seeking to work in Spain, it is essential to know and meet the strict requirements for obtaining a work visa.

1. Types of work visas

There are different types of work visas in Spain, each of which is designed for certain categories of workers:

• General work visa (type D visa): Intended for those who have received a job offer from a Spanish employer.
• Visa for highly qualified professionals (EU Blue Card): For professionals with high qualifications and high-paying jobs.
• Visa for Researchers and Teachers: For researchers and academics.
• Visa for self-employed and entrepreneurs: For those who plan to start their own business in Spain.

2. Basic requirements for a work visa

The process of obtaining a work visa for Spain includes the following steps and requirements:

• Job offer: A valid contract or written job offer from a Spanish employer.
• Work Permit: The employer must obtain permission to hire a foreign employee from the local labour office.
• Documents confirming identity and qualifications: Passport, professional and academic certificates, CV.
• Health insurance: Proof of health insurance covering the entire period of stay in Spain.
• Criminal record certificate: A document from your country of residence or citizenship confirming that you have no criminal record.
• Medical certificate: A certificate that the applicant does not suffer from diseases that could pose a threat to public health.

3. Application procedure

The application for a work visa is submitted in person at the Spanish consulate or embassy in the applicant’s country of residence. It is important to note that the process can take from a few weeks to several months, depending on the specific case and the workload of the visa centre.

4. Additional aspects

After arriving in Spain and starting work, the foreign worker must register with the local tax and social services. This is necessary to obtain a tax card and access to social security and health services.

Obtaining a work visa to Spain is a complex process that requires attention to detail and strict compliance with all requirements. It is advisable to start preparing all the necessary documents in advance and, if necessary, to seek the assistance of specialised migration agents or lawyers to ensure that all the necessary procedures are completed successfully and in a timely manner.

Long-stay visa types for working in Spain

Spain provides different types of long-term visas that allow foreign nationals to work in the country for an extended period of time. These visas vary depending on the category of workers, purpose of stay and other factors.

1. General work visa (D-type visa)

This visa is for those who have received a job offer from a Spanish employer. To obtain the visa, the employer must submit an application to the regional office of the Spanish Ministry of Labour. Once the application is approved, the worker can apply for the visa by submitting the following documents:

• A valid passport;
• A job offer from a Spanish employer;
• Certificate of no criminal record;
• Medical report;
• Proof of sufficient funds for living expenses;
• Health Insurance.

2. Visa for highly qualified specialists (EU Blue Card)

The EU Blue Card is granted to highly qualified professionals who have a job offer in Spain with a sufficiently high salary (at least 1.5 times the national average salary). To obtain the Blue Card, the candidate must provide:

• High School Diploma;
• A contract of employment for a period of not less than one year;
• Documents confirming professional experience and qualifications.

3. Visa for researchers and academics

This visa category is for scientists and researchers who are invited to work in Spanish research organisations. To apply for the visa, it is necessary to:

• Invitation from a research institution;
• Evidence of funding for the study;
• Health Insurance.

4. Visa for self-employed and entrepreneurs

Designed for foreigners planning to set up a business in Spain. Key requirements include:

• Business Plan;
• Proof of sufficient capital for investment;
• Business registration in Spain;
• Approval of the business project with the relevant Spanish authorities.

5. Visa for seasonal workers

This type of visa is intended for foreigners coming for temporary seasonal work. It is important that the employer provides accommodation and that the labour contract complies with Spanish law.

Obtaining a long-term work visa to Spain is a complex process that requires careful preparation and compliance with all legal requirements. The approach to each type of visa is different and depends on many factors, including professional skills, purpose of visit and length of stay in the country. Familiarising yourself with the requirements and procedure for obtaining the appropriate type of visa will greatly simplify the process of legalising foreign workers in Spain.

Who needs a Spain employment Visa?

Spain, with its attractive economy and cultural diversity, is a desirable place of work for many foreign professionals. However, in order to be legally employed, it is necessary to obtain a work visa.

1. Citizens of countries outside the European Union

The main category of persons requiring a work visa are nationals of countries that are not members of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland. These nationals are required to apply for one of the types of national D visas that allow them to work in Spain.

2. Highly qualified specialists

The EU Blue Card is required for foreign professionals with high qualifications who are offered a job in Spain. This type of visa is designed for talented professionals whose skills are in demand in the Spanish labour market. The Blue Card provides not only the right to work, but also additional benefits such as the possibility of family reunification and a simplified process of obtaining a residence permit.

3. Researchers and academics

Scientists and researchers who are invited to Spain to participate in research projects must also apply for the appropriate visa. This includes obtaining a special visa for researchers, which allows them to carry out research and teaching activities.

4. Students who want to work during their studies

International students studying at Spanish universities who wish to work alongside their studies can do so within the limits set by their student visa. However, if they wish to work more than 20 hours per week, they will need to obtain a work visa.

5. Self-employed persons

Foreigners wishing to set up their own business or work for themselves in Spain must go through the process of obtaining a self-employed visa. This process includes confirmation of a business plan and proof of financial sustainability.

Obtaining a work visa to Spain is a complex process that requires the submission of many documents and compliance with procedures. Anyone considering working in Spain is advised to research all the requirements in advance and start preparing documents as early as possible. Seeking professional assistance from lawyers or specialised agencies in a timely manner can make the process of obtaining a work visa much easier.

How to apply for a Spain work visa?

Obtaining a work visa to Spain is an important process for foreign nationals wishing to work in this country. Let’s look in detail at the steps you need to take to successfully obtain a Spanish work visa.

1. Determining whether a visa is required

The first step is to determine whether you need a work visa. Citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area and Switzerland can work in Spain without a work visa. Citizens of other countries need a visa to work legally.

2. Receiving a job offer

To apply for a work visa, you must have a job offer from a Spanish employer. The employer must prove that they have not been able to find a suitable candidate in Spain or in other EU countries.

3. Work authorisation

The employer must submit a request to the National Employment Office in Spain to obtain a work permit in your favour. This authorisation is a prerequisite for applying for a visa.

4. Applying for a national visa

Once you have obtained a work permit, you can apply for a national visa at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country. Documents usually required for a work visa include:

• A completed visa application form;
• A passport valid for at least 6 months after the planned date of departure;
• Two recent passport-size photos;
• Contract of employment from a Spanish employer;
• A criminal record certificate;
• Medical Certificate;
• Proof of sufficient financial means to live in Spain;
• Proof of health insurance covering the entire period of stay.

5. Waiting for a decision and obtaining a visa

After submitting all required documents, you should wait for the consulate’s decision. Processing times may vary, but usually take from a few weeks to a few months. Once your visa has been approved, you will be able to enter Spain.

6. Registration in Spain

On arrival in Spain, you will need to register with the local police or other authorised body to obtain a Foreign Identification Number (NIE) and a residence permit.

The process of obtaining a work visa to Spain requires careful preparation and attention to detail. It is important to carefully prepare all the necessary documents and follow the consulate’s instructions to avoid delays or visa refusal. Seeking the help of professional migration agents or lawyers can help make the process easier.

Required documents for a Spain employment visa

For foreign nationals planning to work in Spain, it is important to prepare in advance the set of documents required to obtain a work visa. Strict adherence to the requirements and accurate documentation ensure a higher chance of successfully obtaining a visa.

1. Valid passport

The passport must be valid for at least six months after the expected visa expiry date. At least two blank pages for visa stamps are required.

2. Completed visa application form

The application form must be filled out neatly in Spanish or English. All information must be up to date and correspond exactly to the information in the other documents.

3. Photos

Two colour passport-size photographs that meet the requirements: recent, clear, on a light background.

4. Document confirming employment

An official invitation from the Spanish employer, which includes information about the position, salary, terms and conditions of employment. The employer must also provide documents proving the right to employ foreign workers.

5. Work authorisation

This document is issued by the Spanish immigration authorities upon application by the employer. The permit confirms that the foreign worker is allowed to work in Spain.

6. Certificate of no criminal record

The document must have been issued by the competent authorities of the applicant’s country of residence within the last five years and translated into Spanish.

7. Medical report

A certificate proving that the applicant does not suffer from diseases defined in the Health Regulations and does not pose a threat to public health. The document must also be translated into Spanish.

8. Proof of financial solvency

Documents proving that you have sufficient funds to live in Spain for the duration of the visa, including bank statements or salary certificates.

9. Insurance policy

Health insurance covering all medical expenses and possible repatriation costs for medical reasons during the entire period of stay in Spain.

Preparing to apply for a work visa to Spain requires careful attention to detail and responsibility when completing all the necessary documents. It is recommended to consult a visa centre or use the services of professional agencies to check the set of documents in advance, which will significantly increase the chances of successfully obtaining a work visa.

Where to apply for a Spain work visa?

For those planning to work in Spain, it is important to understand where and how to apply for a work visa. This process requires the exact rules and procedures to be followed.

1. Spanish consulate or embassy

The main place to apply for a work visa is the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country of residence. The application must be made in person. Depending on the country, there may be certain regional restrictions indicating which consulate or embassy is competent to issue visas specifically for residents of a particular territory.

2. Visa Application Centres

In some countries, Spain delegates visa applications to specialised visa centres. These centres simplify the application process, providing a better quality of service and reducing the burden on consular departments. Visa application centres often provide additional services such as pre-filling of application forms, checking of application packages and pre-booking of interviews.

3. Electronic filing

Some visa categories, including some types of work visas, can be applied for online through the official Spanish government portals. This process involves filling in an electronic application form and uploading scans of the required documents. However, after online submission, a personal visit to the consulate is usually required to submit biometric data and final visa approval.

4. Professional visa agencies

Applying through a professional visa agency can be an alternative for those who prefer to minimise personal effort in the paperwork process. Agencies can assist in preparing documents, complying with all requirements and even in making an appointment for an interview at the consulate.

The choice of where to apply for a work visa in Spain depends on a number of factors, including your location, the type of visa you are applying for and your personal preference for ease of application. It is important to check in advance with the Spanish Consulate’s website or through official information channels for the most suitable place to apply. This will ensure that the whole process goes as smoothly and without delay as possible.

Processing time for Spain work visa

Obtaining a work visa to Spain is a process that requires attention to many details and an understanding of the timeframe. Knowing when your application will be processed will help you plan your actions and prepare for your move.

1. Steps in the process of obtaining a work visa

The process of obtaining a work visa starts with the application and ends with the granting of the visa. The main steps include:

• Submission of documents: The applicant submits a set of documents including an application form, photographs, passport, invitation from the employer, certificates of no criminal record and medical certificate.
• Examination of documents: The Spanish Consulate checks the documents provided and decides whether to issue a visa.
• Interview: In some cases, applicants may be scheduled for an interview.

2. Processing times

The processing time for a work visa application to Spain can vary depending on many factors:

• Standard processing time: Applications are normally processed within 15 working days after submission of the complete application. However, this period may increase to 30 or 60 days depending on the specifics of the case and the workload of the consulate.
• Impact of location: Processing times may depend on the specific consulate where the application is submitted. Consulates in countries with a large number of applications may have longer processing times.
• Peak periods: During tourist seasons and public holidays, the process may slow down due to increased application volume and shorter working days.

3. Tips to speed up the process

• Document Preparation: Prepare and check all necessary documents in advance to avoid delays due to incomplete packages or errors in the documents.
• Early Filing: File as early as possible, especially if you plan to start working within a certain time frame.
• Electronic Services: Use available electronic services to track the status of your application.

4. Possible delays

Delays may occur due to unforeseen circumstances such as the political environment, national holidays or technical failures in the consulate’s system. Being prepared for possible delays will help you avoid critical situations in planning your move and starting work.

Understanding the processing times for your Spanish work visa application and taking into account possible delays is an important element of successfully planning your career and relocation to Spain. By following these guidelines, you can minimise the risks and make the visa application process as smooth as possible.

Taxes in Spain for foreign workers

Spain attracts many foreign professionals due to its mild climate, developed economy and cultural diversity. However, before starting work in this country, foreign workers need to understand the peculiarities of the Spanish tax system. In this article, we detail the main aspects of taxation applicable to foreign workers in Spain.

1. Determination of tax residency

The main criterion affecting tax liability in Spain is tax residency. A foreign worker is considered tax resident if he or she spends more than 183 days in Spain in a calendar year. Tax residents are taxed on their worldwide income, i.e. all income earned both domestically and abroad.

Non-residents are only taxed on income earned in Spain. This includes wages from work done in Spain and income from property located in Spain.

2. Rates of taxation

There is a progressive taxation scale for tax residents. In 2024, the taxation rates are as follows:

• Up to 12,450 euros – 19%
• Between EUR 12,450 and EUR 20,200 – 24%
• From 20,200 to 35,200 euros – 30 per cent
• From 35,200 to 60,000 euros – 37%
• Over 60,000 euros – 45%

For non-residents, the tax rate on income earned in Spain is normally 24%. However, a reduced rate of 19% applies for citizens of the European Union, Norway and Iceland.

3. Tax incentives and treaties

Spain has bilateral tax treaties with many countries to avoid double taxation. These treaties allow foreign employees to reduce their tax burden by taking into account taxes paid in other countries.

In addition, there is the so-called “183 days” rule, which provides the possibility of not paying taxes in the first year of stay in Spain if the total time spent in the country in a calendar year does not exceed this limit.

4. Necessity of filing a tax return

All Spanish tax residents are required to file an annual tax return if their income exceeds the prescribed thresholds. Non-residents file a declaration if they have income in Spain that is subject to taxation.

Understanding the Spanish tax system helps foreign workers to manage their finances effectively and avoid legal problems. It is advisable to consult qualified tax advisors or lawyers to ensure compliance with Spanish tax legislation and optimise tax liabilities.

Minimum wage in Spain

An introduction to the topic of minimum wage (SMI) in Spain not only helps to understand the current economic situation of the country, but also provides an important reference point for entrepreneurs planning to start a business in this jurisdiction. Minimum wage regulation is closely linked to the government’s social policy and has a direct impact on the labour market.

1. Determination of minimum wage

The minimum wage in Spain (Salario Mínimo Interprofesional, SMI) is the minimum income that employers are obliged to pay their full-time employees. The SMI is regularly revised by the government according to economic conditions and the consumer price index.

2. Historical development

Spain has significantly increased the minimum wage in recent years. For example, in 2021, the minimum wage was raised to €950 per month. This was done as part of the government’s efforts to reduce poverty among employees and stimulate economic growth.

3. Current minimum wage rate

For 2023, the minimum monthly wage in Spain is €1,080. This amount is paid in 14 instalments per year, which means that twice a year workers receive double payments (usually in June and December).

4. Regulation and legislative initiatives

The Spanish government encourages social dialogue between employee and employer representatives to determine changes to the SMI. This allows the minimum wage to be adapted to the realities of the economy and inflation. In addition, the legislation provides for fines for employers who violate the minimum wage.

5. Impact on business

It is important for foreign entrepreneurs and investors to consider the minimum wage when planning labour costs. Increasing the minimum wage may increase overall labour costs, but it can also stimulate consumer demand and improve the economic situation in the country.

Conclusion

The regulation of the minimum wage in Spain plays an important role in the country’s economic policy aimed at improving the living standards of the population and stimulating business activity. Foreign entrepreneurs should take this into account when developing strategies for doing business in Spain, as it affects the company’s cost structure and potential investment opportunities.