If you're planning to work in Spain as a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, the process starts with securing a job offer from a Spanish employer. From there, both you and your employer must follow a structured procedure involving the Spanish immigration authorities and the embassy or consulate in your home country. Here's everything you need to know about obtaining a Spanish work permit and visa.
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
The process begins with finding a legitimate job offer from a registered Spanish employer. Without a confirmed employment contract, you cannot apply for a work permit or visa.
Step 2: Employer Applies for Your Work Permit
Once you've accepted a job offer, your employer must apply for a work authorization (Autorización de residencia y trabajo) on your behalf at the provincial immigration office (Oficina de Extranjería) in Spain.
The employer will need to submit several documents, including:
-
The signed employment contract
-
Proof the position couldn’t be filled by a local or EU candidate
-
Company registration and tax information
Note: The job must be listed on Spain’s shortage occupation list or demonstrate the need for hiring a foreign national.
Step 3: Wait for Work Permit Approval
The local immigration office will process the employer’s request. If approved, the resolution will be forwarded to the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country of residence. You’ll then be allowed to move forward with your work visa application.
Step 4: Apply for a Work Visa
With your approved work authorization, you can apply for a national work visa (type D) at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country.
Step 5: Prepare and Submit Required Documents
To apply for your work visa, you’ll need to gather and submit the following documents:
-
A completed visa application form
-
A valid passport
-
A copy of the approved work permit
-
A signed work contract
-
Proof of educational or professional qualifications
-
A recent police clearance certificate
-
A medical certificate confirming you're free from communicable diseases
-
Proof of accommodation in Spain
-
Health insurance coverage
-
Recent passport-sized photographs
-
Proof of visa fee payment
-
Any additional documents as requested by the embassy for your visa category
Step 6: Schedule and Attend Your Appointment
Book an appointment at the nearest Spanish consulate or embassy to submit your application. You may also be required to attend an in-person interview or provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
Step 7: Visa Processing
The processing time for a Spanish work visa typically ranges from 1 to 3 months, depending on your nationality and the embassy’s workload. Stay in touch with the consulate for updates.
Step 8: Receive Your Visa and Travel to Spain
Once your visa is approved, you’ll receive a long-stay work visa, allowing you to enter Spain and begin your job. Within 30 days of arrival, you must:
-
Register with the local town hall (ayuntamiento)
-
Apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) at the police station
Applying for a work permit and visa in Spain is a multi-step process that requires coordination between you and your employer. Ensure all documents are accurate, up-to-date, and submitted on time to avoid delays. For the most current requirements, consult the official website of the Spanish Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration or your nearest Spanish consulate.