Expanding into Spain offers companies strategic access to European and North African markets, attracting professionals worldwide to its booming sectors like engineering, tourism, and finance. Understanding Spain's work visa process is crucial for both companies and professionals aiming to navigate the immigration system successfully.
EEA and Swiss Citizens: Citizens from the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland do not require a work visa to live and work in Spain. Post-Brexit, UK citizens now need a work visa.
Long-Term Work Visa: The standard work visa, valid for one year and renewable indefinitely. Requires a work contract with a local company and the job position to be considered a "Shortage Occupation" or no suitable EU candidates.
Seasonal Work Visa: For short-term employment contracts, valid for several months. Applicants must provide proof of accommodation, employer-provided travel, and a commitment to return home post-contract.
Au Pair Work Visa: For individuals providing Au Pair services, valid for one year and renewable for a maximum of two years. Applicants must be 17-30 years old, fluent in English, French, or German, have basic Spanish skills, no children, and secure a host family before applying.
EU Blue Card Visa: For highly qualified non-EU nationals, valid for one year and renewable. Offers favorable conditions for family relocation and requires a higher education diploma or professional experience, and a job offer with a salary at least 1.5 times the average Spanish wage.
Self-Employed Visa: Allows working as freelancers or autónomos for one year, renewable for four more years. Applicants must be over 18, have no criminal record, possess professional qualifications or experience, and provide proof of sufficient financial resources.
Employer Requests Work Authorization: From Spain’s Ministry of Labor, which can take up to three months.
Apply for a Work Visa: At a local Spanish embassy or consulate in the applicant's home country.
Obtain the Work and Residence Visas: Visa processing can take up to three months.
Travel to Spain: Upon receiving the work visa.
Register with Spanish Social Security: And apply for a Foreigner Identity Card if staying longer than six months.
Employer of Record (EOR) Solution: For companies hiring foreign nationals in Spain, partnering with an EOR simplifies hiring and compliance processes by acting as the legal employer for global workforce, allowing companies to focus on their core business activities.
Visa Costs and Validity: Costs vary by visa ty****pe and applicant's nationality, ranging from €73 to €674. Visa validity ranges from several months to one year, with some visas being renewable.
Remote Work Visa: Different from standard work visas, allowing foreign nationals to reside and work in Spain on a self-employed basis.
For companies and professionals navigating Spain's work visa process, understanding the types, requirements, and application steps is essential for a successful transition.
Prepared on the information from velocityglobal.com