The Spanish Work/ Employment Visa
The Spanish Work Visa (also known as the Residence and Work Permit) allows non-EU citizens to live and work legally in Spain under an employment contract. It’s the most common route for foreign professionals who have secured a job offer from a Spanish company or plan to work as self-employed individuals.
Whether you’re relocating for a full-time position, an intra-company transfer, or to run your own business, the Work Visa provides the legal foundation to live and build a career in Spain.
Who needs a Work Visa for Spain?
Citizens from countries outside the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland must hold a valid work and residence authorization before beginning employment in Spain.
This visa is intended for:
- Skilled professionals hired by a Spanish company.
- Technical and highly qualified workers in shortage occupations.
- Intra-company transferees relocating to a Spanish branch or subsidiary.
- Self-employed workers starting their own business (autónomos).
EU and EEA citizens do not need a visa to work in Spain, but non-EU nationals must complete the visa and residence process before starting employment.
What are the main types of Spanish Work Visas?
Spain offers several work-related residence categories depending on your employment situation:
1. Work Visa with a Job Offer (Employment Contract)
- Requires a formal contract with a Spanish employer who applies for authorization on your behalf.
- Most common for professionals relocating to Spain for full-time positions.
2. Self-Employed Work Visa (Autónomo Visa)
- For individuals who plan to work independently or start their own business in Spain.
- Applicants must present a viable business plan, financial proof, and relevant experience.
3. Highly Qualified Professional Visa
- Part of Spain’s Start-up Law, offering fast-track processing for executives, researchers, and specialists earning above a defined salary threshold.
4. Intra-Company Transfer Visa (ICT)
- For employees transferring from a foreign office to a Spanish branch or subsidiary.
- Common in multinational corporations.
What are the main eligibility requirements?
Requirements vary slightly depending on the visa type, but generally include:
- Job offer or business plan: A valid employment contract from a Spanish employer, or an approved business plan for self-employment.
- Authorization from the Spanish authorities: The employer (or applicant for self-employment) must first obtain a work and residence authorization from Spain’s immigration office.
- Proof of qualifications — education, training, or relevant experience for the role.
- Sufficient financial means during the initial period.
- Private health insurance or registration with Spanish social security once working.
- Clean criminal record and medical certificate.
- Valid passport and legalized, translated documents.
What are the key benefits of the Spanish Work Visa?
The Work Visa offers both legal stability and long-term residence benefits:
✅ Legal residence and employment rights in Spain.
✅ Initial authorization valid for one year, renewable for two-year periods.
✅ Family reunification rights — bring your spouse and children once your residence is granted.
✅ Access to Spain’s healthcare and social security system.
✅ Freedom to travel within the Schengen Zone for short periods.
✅ Pathway to long-term residence after five years of continuous stay.
✅ Potential transition to permanent residency or Spanish citizenship.
How to apply for the Spanish Work Visa?
The application process involves both the employer (or business applicant) and the Spanish consulate:
Step 1 — Authorization in Spain
- The Spanish employer submits a work authorization request to the local immigration office (Oficina de Extranjería).
- The application must include the employment contract, company registration documents, and proof that the role could not be filled by an EU candidate.
- Once approved, the employer receives a favorable resolution letter.
Step 2 — Visa application abroad
- The employee applies for the Work Visa at the Spanish Consulate in their home country, presenting the approval letter and required documents.
- Once granted, the visa is stamped in the passport.
- The applicant must enter Spain within 90 days and apply for their TIE residence card within 30 days of arrival.
For self-employed workers, the process is similar but handled directly by the applicant instead of an employer.
In Summary
The Spanish Work / Employment Visa is the primary route for non-EU citizens seeking to live and work legally in Spain. It provides long-term residence, access to employment rights, and the possibility to bring family members. Whether you’re joining a Spanish company or starting your own venture, this visa opens the door to professional and personal growth in one of Europe’s most dynamic countries.
If you’re preparing to apply, it’s recommended to seek advice from a Spanish immigration specialist to ensure your documents and employment authorization are handled correctly.
Want to assess your eligibility for Spain's Work/Employment Visa? Book a call.