Every year, lots of non-EU nationals apply for a work visa for Spain, and for good reason.
Spain is one of the world’s most attractive destinations for workers looking for professional opportunities abroad.
This is due to its diverse industries catering to job seekers with different skill sets and backgrounds.
According to EURES data, Spain’s economy ranks as the fourth largest in the EU in terms of nominal GDP.
Additionally, the widespread use of the Spanish language positions local companies to easily engage with proficient foreign candidates.
Read on to learn how to obtain a work visa for Spain and legally work in the country.
Work Visa for Spain: Essential Prerequisites
If you’re looking for employment opportunities in Spain, the first step is to find a job abroad.
After that, you’ll need to sign an employment contract.
Next, your employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf.
In Spain, the work permit for employed individuals is known as “Autorización de Residencia y Trabajo por Cuenta Ajena”.
Competent authorities can grant this work permit for more than 90 days but less than five years.
Upon approval of the work permit, the employer will send you a copy.
Next, you need to apply for a work visa for Spain.
Do note that you only have a one-month window to apply for a visa after receiving your work permit.
That’s why we suggest that you collect the required documents well in advance.
Required Documents
You must apply for a Spain work visa at the Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Application Center of Spain located in your home country.
In most cases, the following documents are required:
- Spain National Visa application form fully completed and signed
- A passport (original and copy) with a validity of at least four months beyond the intended duration of the visa. The passport must have a minimum of two blank pages. In the case of a temporary work contract, the validity period of the passport must encompass the duration of the contract.
- At least two 35 X 45 mm photos not older than six months
- Copy of the work permit (Autorización de Residencia y Trabajo por Cuenta Ajena)
- Employment contract signed by both parties. The contract must bear the stamp of the Immigration Office.
- Police clearance issued by each country where you resided for the past five years. The certificate’s validity must not exceed three months from the date of issuance. Any exceptions will be specified on the document.
- Health certificate not older than three months. The certificate must state that you do not suffer from any diseases that could pose significant public risks. This statement is in accordance with the 2005 International Health Regulations.
- Proof of residency within the jurisdiction of the Embassy
- Proof of paid visa fee (80 EUR)
- Some Spanish Embassies may require a pre-paid Special Delivery Envelope with full name and address. The envelope ensures the secure and efficient delivery of your documents back from the Embassy. The Embassy may also request a Solicitud de Visado Nacional form fully completed along with the envelope.
Please note that the list above is not exhaustive.
Embassies reserve the right to request additional documents, depending on your personal situation.
The Spain work visa processing time is typically one month.
However, the processing time may be extended if an interview or additional documents are required.