Work Visa Spain: A Step-by-Step Guide

A work visa Spain is required if you want to live and work in Spain and you’re not a citizen of the EU or EEA. It allows non-EU nationals to take a job, start a project, or join a company in Spain legally.

Spain has many types of work visas for different kinds of professionals, including skilled workers, seasonal employees, entrepreneurs, and even digital nomads. Each type has its own rules based on the job and your qualifications.

This article will explain the requirements for a Spain work visa, the documents you’ll need, how to apply, and more useful information to help you through the process.

• What is a Spain Work Visa?
• When do you need a Work Visa Spain?
• Spain Work Visas
• Requirements for a Spain Work Visa
• Supporting Documents for Spain Work Visa
• Spain Work Visa Application Process
• After You Arrive in Spain with a Work Visa
• Spanish Work Visa Processing Time
• Spain Work Visa Fees
• How long is a Work Visa Spain valid?

What is a Spain Work Visa?

A Spain work visa is an official authorization that allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to live and work legally in Spain. In most cases it is tied to a specific job offer from a Spanish employer and must be approved before entry into Spain for work purposes.

When do you need a Work Visa Spain?

You need a Spanish work visa if you’re not from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you want to live and work in Spain for more than 90 days. This applies whether you’re taking a job with a Spanish company or planning to work for yourself. You must apply for the

visa before entering Spain, as it’s not possible to switch from a tourist visa to a work visa once you’re already in the country.

People from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland don’t need a visa to work in Spain, but they must register locally if staying long term. They can apply for the Spain CRUE (Certificado de Registro de la Unión Europea), which is the certificate of registration for EU citizens living in Spain.

Spain Work Visas

Spain offers several types of work visas depending on the kind of job you plan to do. Here are the main ones

Employee Work Visa (Cuenta Ajena)

The Employee Work visa is for people who have a job offer from a company in Spain. The employer must apply for your work authorization before you can apply for the visa. Once it’s approved, you can apply for the visa at the Spanish consulate in your country. It is the most common visa for regular jobs.

Self Employment Visa (Cuenta Propia)

If you want to work for yourself in Spain as a freelancer or by starting your own business, you will need a Spain Self Employed Visa. You must show a business plan, proof of income or investment, and qualifications related to your work.

Highly Qualified Professional Visa

The Spain Highly Qualified Professional Visa is for skilled professionals like engineers, managers, scientists or tech workers who have a high-level job offer in Spain. You need a university degree, and the job must pay a competitive salary. It is easier and faster to process than a regular work visa.

EU Blue Card

Similar to the Highly Qualified Visa, the EU Blue Card is for people with a university degree and a high paying job offer with at least 5+ years of relevant experience. It allows you to live and work in Spain and later move to other EU countries more easily. It is a good option if you plan to build a career across Europe.

Seasonal Work Visa

This visa is for people who are hired for temporary work, usually in agriculture, tourism or hospitality. The job lasts for a few months, and you must return to your home country after the contract ends. It is a short-term visa, not a pathway to permanent residence.

Au Pair Visa

The Au Pair Visa is for young people aged 18 to 30 who want to live with a Spanish family and help with childcare and light housework. In exchange, you get free room, meals and a small allowance. It is a cultural exchange program, not formal employment.

Spain Digital Nomad Visa

The Spain Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers to live in Spain while working for companies or clients based outside the country. To qualify, applicants must earn at least €2,763 per month, hold a university degree or have at least three years of relevant work experience, and show proof that they’ve been working for a foreign company or client for at least three months before applying. The residence permit is valid for three years and can be renewed, which allows you to stay in Spain for up to five years.

Requirements for a Spain Work Visa 

The work Visas in Spain each have their own eligibility criteria, but there are standard requirements that must be met.

• Job offer and employment contract: You must have a confirmed job offer and a signed employment contract from a Spanish company before applying. The job must be listed as hard to fill or highly skilled if applying from outside Spain.
• Work authorization (Autorización de trabajo y residencia): Your employer must apply for your work and residence permit at the immigration office in Spain before you can request the visa.
• No criminal record: You must not have any criminal convictions in Spain or in the countries where you’ve lived during the past 5 years.
• Medical certificate: You need a medical certificate showing you’re free of any diseases that could pose a public health risk under international health standards.

Supporting Documents for Spain Work Visa 

When applying for a Spain work visa application, you’ll need to provide several supporting documents. These documents may differ depending on the type of work visa you’re applying for, but here’s a general list:

1. Valid passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond the planned stay in Spain.
2. Completed application form: The specific form depends on the type of work visa you’re applying for. It can usually be found at the Spanish consulate or embassy website.
3. Two passport-sized photos: Recent and meeting the consulate’s photo requirements.
4. Job offer/contract: Proof of employment contract or job offer from a Spanish employer (if applying for an employee work visa). The contract must outline the position, salary, and duration of employment.
5. Proof of qualifications: Diplomas, degrees, or professional certifications that show your qualifications for the job.
6. Proof of work experience: Documents like references, employment records, or a portfolio, particularly if applying for the Highly Qualified Professional Visa.
7. Financial evidence: Proof that you can support yourself financially in Spain, which can include bank statements, pay slips, or proof of income. This is especially important for self-employed visas (Cuenta Propia) or the Spain Digital Nomad Visa.
8. Health insurance: Proof of private health insurance coverage that is valid in Spain, with no exclusions for pre-existing conditions.
9. Criminal record certificate: A certificate from your home country stating that you have no criminal record. It should cover the past five years.
10. Medical certificate: A health certificate confirming that you don’t have any diseases that could pose a risk to public health in Spain.
11. Visa fee payment: Payment of the application fee, which varies depending on the type of visa.
12. Proof of accommodation: Documentation showing where you will live while in Spain, such as a rental agreement or a letter from your host in Spain.

For Self-Employment Visas or Digital Nomad Visas, additional documents might include:

• A business plan or proof of existing business.
• Tax returns or proof of freelance income.
• Evidence of remote work contracts

Spain Work Visa Application Process

Here is an overview of the work visa Spain application process.

1. Determine the type of work visa: Identify the specific work visa that suits your situation (e.g., Employee Work Visa, Self-Employment Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, etc.). The type of visa determines the documents you’ll need and the application process.
2. Secure a job or employment offer (if applicable): For most work visas, especially Employee Work Visas, you must have a confirmed job offer from a Spanish employer. The employer may need to prove that no suitable candidate from Spain or the EU was available for the position before they can hire a non-EU worker.
3. Gather the required documents: Collect all the necessary documents for the application.
4. Submit the application to the Spanish Consulate or embassy: You must submit your work visa application at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country or country of residence. Complete the application form and submit all required documents. Some embassies or consulates may require an appointment, so it’s important to check their website for specific instructions.
5. Pay the visa fee: There is usually a visa processing fee that you’ll need to pay when submitting your application. The cost varies depending on the type of visa and your nationality.
6. Attend an interview (if required): Depending on the type of work visa and the consulate’s procedures, you may be asked to attend an interview. Be prepared to answer questions about your job, qualifications, and reasons for moving to Spain.
7. Wait for processing: The processing time for a Spain work visa takes between 1 to 3 months, but it can vary depending on the consulate and the type of visa. During this time, the consulate or embassy will assess your application and supporting documents.
8. Receive the decision: Once your application is processed, you’ll receive a decision. If approved, you’ll be granted a work visa that allows you to work and live in Spain for the duration of your employment or contract. If your visa is denied, you’ll receive a notification with the reasons, and you may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply.

After You Arrive in Spain with a Work Visa

Once you arrive in Spain with your approved work visa, you need to apply for a Residence Card for Foreigners (TIE), which serves as official proof of your legal residence. You must apply at the Foreigners’ Office (Oficina de Extranjería) or a local Police Station in the area where you live. It’s important to apply within 30 days of arrival to avoid penalties or issues with your legal status in Spain.

These are the documents needed:

• Your passport (with the work visa stamp).
• Proof of address (e.g., a rental contract or utility bill).
• Visa approval notice.
• Passport-sized photos (usually two).
• TIE application form (available at the office or online).
• Payment receipt for the TIE fee.

The processing of your TIE can take a few weeks, during which you may receive a temporary certificate proving your registration in Spain. However, you cannot start working until your TIE is ready. Once processed, you will be notified to pick up your TIE, which serves as your official ID card in Spain, and confirms your legal status in Spain.

Spanish Work Visa Processing Time

Spain Work Visa Fees

How long is a Work Visa Spain valid?

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Spain Work Visa

What is a Spain Work Visa?

A Spain Work Visa allows foreign nationals to live and work in Spain legally. It is required for non-EU/EEA nationals who plan to work in Spain, either as an employee or self-employed.

Who needs a Spain Work Visa?

Non-EU/EEA nationals need a Spain Work Visa if they wish to work in Spain. Citizens of EU/EEA countries do not need a work visa to live and work in Spain.

How can I apply for a Spain Work Visa?

To apply for a Spain Work Visa, you must have a job offer from a Spanish employer or plan to work as a self-employed individual. The application process typically involves submitting documents such as a job offer, proof of qualifications, and your passport. After approval, you can apply at the Spanish consulate in your home country.

How long does it take to get a Spain Work Visa?

Processing times for Spain Work Visas typically range from 1 to 3 months, depending on the visa type and your nationality. Make sure to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

Can I bring my family with me on a Spain Work Visa?

Yes, you can bring your family (spouse and dependent children) with you on a Spain Work Visa. They will need to apply for family reunification once your work visa is approved.

How long is a Spain Work Visa valid?

The validity of a Spain Work Visa depends on the type of visa. It can range from 1 year for temporary employment or self-employment visas to up to 4 years for highly qualified professionals or the EU Blue Card. Some visas may also be renewable.

What documents do I need to apply for a Spain Work Visa?

Documents commonly required include:

• A valid passport.
• A job offer or proof of self-employment.
• Proof of qualifications or experience.
• Proof of financial stability or income.
• Health insurance.
• Police clearance or criminal record check (in some cases).
• Payment of visa fees.

Can I work in Spain with a tourist visa?

No, a tourist visa does not permit you to work in Spain. If you plan to work, you need to apply for the appropriate work visa before arriving.

Can I change my visa type while in Spain?

In most cases, you cannot change your visa type once you are in Spain. You will need to apply for a new visa from your home country. However, some situations may allow for changes, such as transitioning from a student visa to a work visa.

Can I apply for a Spain Work Visa if I am already in Spain?

No, you must apply for a Spain Work Visa before entering the country. However, there are certain exceptions where you might be able to apply for a work visa from within Spain, such as if you’re on a student visa and secure employment.

What happens if my Spain Work Visa is denied?

If your Spain Work Visa is denied, you will receive a notification explaining the reason for the denial. You can either appeal the decision or apply for a different type of visa if eligible.

Do I need to speak Spanish to get a Spain Work Visa?

Speaking Spanish is not always required, but it can be helpful, especially for jobs that require communication with locals. Some jobs in Spain may require proficiency in Spanish, particularly in customer service or teaching roles.