With a fascinating history and active economy, Spain is definitely an attractive option for anyone who is seeking work abroad. If you're dreaming of building your career in this beautiful country, understanding how to get a work visa in Spain is crucial. While Spain's immigration system can be confusing, you can get it done with the right information and preparation.
Like any other nation, this country has specific legal requirements that regulate the procedures, which include receiving a job offer and other requirements. This article discusses the essential aspects of the application process, including employer sponsorship, required documentation, how to apply, and more. Let's explore how to turn your career aspirations into reality!
Spain Work Visa Basics
Before discussing how to get a work visa in Spain, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the basics. A Spain Work Visa is a type of long-stay visa for non-EU citizens that allows you to work for pay in Spain. If you wish to live and work in Spain, then you will work with two major parts of government: the Ministry of Inclusion, Migration, and Social Security. You'll also be involved with the Ministry of Labor and Social Economy.
Fortunately, it is easy for nationals of the European Union, EEA, or Switzerland to relocate to Spain, where they are free to live, work, and study. However, most non-EU/EEA nationals, often known as third-country nationals, must first obtain an employment contract and then apply for a work permit. In addition, UK nationals who want to live and work in Spain post-Brexit will require a work and residence permit.
Work Permit Exemptions
There are some situations in which foreign nationals can work in Spain without a work permit. However, they'll need a long-term D visa to enter Spain. Some of those exempted from the work permit include:
- Technicians
- University professors
- Scientists
- Clergy
- Foreign journalists
- Artists coming for specific performances
Types of Spain Work Visas
If you've concluded that you need a visa to work in Spain, you should be aware that there are two major types of visas available. They are:
Work Employment Visa
When researching how to get a work visa in Spain, it's essential to explore the specifics of the Work Employment Visa. Highly-skilled professionals and skilled workers are eligible for this type of visa. If you're thinking of working in any company or organization in Spain, then this visa is for you. A job offer is an essential requirement for getting a work employment visa.
Your Spanish company must then finish the work permit application so that you can work lawfully in Spain. Permits are issued for certain industries. Therefore, it is normally possible for qualified professionals to change occupations as long as they are in the same industry. The work-employment visa is further divided into three categories:
Spain Au Pair Visa: A Spanish au pair visa is a long-term visa for students who wish to work in Spain as babysitters or helpers with household duties for a particular family.
Spain Entrepreneur Visa: A Spanish Entrepreneur Visa is a long-stay visa that enables foreign citizens to work for pay while in Spain for more than three months. The nation gives preference to applicants who have startup ideas or professions that align with the overall interests of the Spanish economy.
Spain Working Holiday Visa: A Spain Working Holiday visa allows you to work in Spain while you're on vacation. It is only accessible to young people in a few countries and is only available for a maximum of one year without the option of renewal or extension.
Self-employment Visas
The Self-employment visa permits freelancers (self-employed persons) to live and conduct business in Spain. It is valid for one year but also renewable. Applicants must fulfill the following visa requirements in order to apply for the self-employment residency visa:
- You must be over 18 years old
- You must have a clean criminal record
- You must provide proof of sufficient funds
- Provide proof of professional experience
- Provide work contract
- Provide proof of residence
- Provide any required permits, licenses, or registrations regarding your business activity.
Seasonal Work Visas
For individuals seeking temporary work in Spain, understanding how to get a work visa in Spain involves learning about the Seasonal Work Visa. People with a Seasonal Worker visa can work in Spain during certain times of the year, such as the busiest holiday season.
The employer in Spain must apply for this visa. Seasonal Worker visas are valid for a maximum of nine months per year and have the same terms as the work contract. Applicants may extend their visa validity for a maximum period of nine months if the contract is shorter.
Documents Required for a Spain Work Visa Application
Here are the official documents requirements for the visa application process:
- Spanish work contract
- A valid passport
- Standard passport photographs
- Work Authorization
- Criminal record certificate
- Birth certificate
- Medical certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of professional qualifications
- Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements)
How to Get a Work Visa in Spain
In Spain, an employer must first secure a working authorization for their employee before they may receive a work visa. So, every foreign employee should complete their application by following these steps:
1. Get a Job
Make sure you know the work visa you want to apply for first. You must find employment with a Spanish institution, company, or organization in order to apply for a Spain employment visa. According to Spanish regulations, you must have a formal work offer.
However, in the case of a self-employment visa application, you will need to demonstrate that you have a strategy for investment or freelancing and that you have the financial resources to support your business plan.
2. Check Where and When to Make Your Visa ApplicationÂ
Apply not more than three months before your travel to Spain. Make sure you apply early. You must turn in your application at one of the following places:
- The Spanish Embassy/Consulate
- A visa application center
How the Spanish representative authorities in your country of residence have set up visa submission will determine where you must apply. You should contact them to confirm where you should apply.
3. Collect the Required Documents
This is the most crucial section of your application. You may need to provide extra documentation based on your investment plan or the job offer. Another factor influencing the list of documents you must submit is your nationality. The consulate will give you a complete list of the paperwork needed for your case.
4. Make and Attend a Spain Work Visa Interview
Appointments for Spain Work Visa applications can be made online via the website of the visa-processing center, the Spanish consulate's call center, or a third-party visa-processing facility. Everything depends on how the Spanish representation has handled this matter in your nation.
On the interview date, you'll need to pay the visa fee and give your biometrics before attending the interview. The interview is a brief meeting with the visa consular representative. You will also have to answer various questions about your intended trip.
5. Wait for the Processing
Most nations process visa applications in a month, but some may take up to two months. For this reason, you should apply as early as possible to prevent any delays.
Travel to Spain
Knowing how to get a work visa in Spain is just the first step; once you've received your visa, you can travel to Spain. When you arrive in Spain, your employer must register you with the relevant Social Security system. Furthermore, If you plan to stay in Spain for more than six months, you must apply for a Foreigner Identity Card from the Foreign Nationals' Office, which verifies your legal status in Spain. You'll also get a Foreign Identity Number.
Note that those with Seasonal Work visas are excluded from applying for a Foreigner Identity Card upon arrival and are permitted to work in Spain for the duration of their authorization. Additionally, people from specified backgrounds, such as artists, researchers, and government servants, may possess a special six-month-validity visa that states they are “exempt from work permits,” enabling them to begin working immediately.
Spain Work Visa Fees
The general work visa costs €167 ($174) for USA citizens, €100 ($104) for Canadian citizens, and €80 ($83) for other nationals. The self-employed visa costs €238 ($249) for USA Citizens, €674 ($705) for Canadian citizens, and €80 for other nationals.
How Long Does a Spain Work Visa Last?
Depending on the kind of visa, the processing time of a Spain work visa might range from a few months to a year. The typical Long-Term Work Visa, for instance, has a one-year validity period and is renewable. But seasonal work visas are only valid for a few months, and when they expire, the person has to go back to their country of origin.
Can I Bring My Family to Spain?
Your family members can join you after you've spent a year working in Spain. To bring them to Spain, you need to acquire a residency card that permits you to work for an additional year. Your family members are also permitted to work in Spain without a work permit.
What Should I Do If My Visa Application Is Denied?
If your work visa application is denied, you have the right to appeal the Spanish government's decision. Just fill out the application at the Spanish Embassy or the agency in your nation. This will enable you to justify your disagreement with the decision. The embassy will review your appeal, and your visa application will either be denied or accepted.
You should regard the ruling as final if you don't hear back in writing within a month of the appeal date. You should regard the decision as final if you don't hear back in writing within a month of the appeal date. You can appeal again, though, but you will require legal representation and it must be presented to Spanish tribunals.
Benefits of Working In Spain
After learning how to get a work visa in Spain, you can start to enjoy the many benefits of working in Spain, such as a great work-life balance, delicious cuisine, and a warm and welcoming climate. Here are some benefits of getting a Spanish work visa:
1. Health insurance: Medical insurance is a benefit in Spain that supplements the public medical service. It is regarded as one of the most appreciated by employees, in addition to the favorable tax treatment. Although the public uses the public system, employees may encounter non-urgent surgical dates and testing delays. Medical services from physicians and hospitals are accessible under the Basic Private Health Policy.
2. Lower cost of living: Spain and Portugal are the two countries in western Europe with the lowest cost of living. As a result, you can have a decent level of life that is equivalent to that of high-ranking nations in northern and western Europe without having to pay as much. Spain has one of the lowest cost of living among developed nations worldwide, making it one of the most affordable places to live in Europe. It's also among the cheapest work visa countries with high work demand.
3. Vibrant community: Many Spanish citizens are known for living “al fresco,” which promotes relaxed socializing. Generally speaking, Spanish nationals are quite hospitable and help newcomers feel accepted and included in their society. Spanish people are recognized for their enjoyment of cuisine and music, as well as their family-oriented beliefs. Even if you don't know the language well and miss your home country, there are active expat groups in Spain. If you need some assistance adjusting to life in Spain, you should be able to locate individuals in a similar situation through different events for expats.
Conclusion
Understanding how to get a work visa in Spain is crucial for foreign citizens. Knowing the application process, requirements, and benefits can unlock opportunities and relevant experiences. Ensure that you carefully plan and pay attention to detail for a successful application.
