Can I move to Spain to work without a job offer?

Most work visas require a job offer from a Spanish employer. However, the Job Seeker Visa and High-Qualified Professional routes may have different entry requirements.

What is the Labour Market Test?

Typically, your employer must prove the job could not be filled by an EU citizen. This does not apply to highly skilled workers or certain 'shortage' occupations.

How long is the Spain Work Visa valid for?

The initial work visa is usually valid for one year and is renewable as long as the employment conditions continue to be met.

Can I apply for permanent residency later?

Yes, after five years of legal and continuous residence in Spain, you may apply for permanent residency status.

Can I bring my family with me?

For standard work visas, family members can usually apply for reunification once the worker has resided in Spain for one year and holds a renewal. Highly skilled workers can often bring family immediately.

Can I change a tourist visa to a work visa while in Spain?

No, you must apply for your work visa at the Spanish Consulate in your country of regular residence before travelling to Spain.

Once in Spain, you must apply for your TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) within 30 days of arrival.

Can I switch employers while on a work visa?

Yes, but your new employer may need to apply for a new work authorisation unless you have already obtained permanent residency or five years of permit renewals.

work country

work visa

Spain Work Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

The Spain Work Visa, often referred to as the 'Cuenta Ajena', is the primary route for non-EU nationals to live and work in Spain. This visa is designed for individuals who have secured a job offer from a Spanish employer. Before you can apply for the visa at a consulate, your employer must first obtain an authorisation to hire a foreign worker from the provincial delegates of the Ministry of Labour in Spain. Once the work authorisation is granted, the applicant must navigate the consular process in their home country. This involves proving professional competence, a clean criminal record, and general good health. While the process can be bureaucratic, it provides a stable path to long-term residency and eventually Spanish citizenship. Please note that visa policies are subject to change; always verify requirements with the official Spanish Consulate before beginning your application.

Key highlights

Authorises legal employment and residence in Spain for non-EU citizens.
Pathways for highly skilled professionals, researchers, and seasonal workers.
Standard work permits require a verified job offer and contract.
Mandatory medical certificate and police clearance for most applicants.
In-person application at a Spanish Consulate or Embassy is required.
Possibility of family reunification after the first year of residence.
Multiple-entry access to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days.

Processing time

4-12 weeks

Processing begins only after the employer has secured the initial work authorisation in Spain. Consular times vary by location.

Estimated cost

$150 - $400

Consular Processing Fee$80 - $200 (varies by nationality)
Foreigner ID Card (TIE) Fee$15 - $25
Legalisation and Translation FeesVaries

Requirements

Must have a job contract signed by both the employer and employee.
The employer must be registered with the Spanish Social Security system.
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationality status.
Proof of professional qualifications required for the specific job.
No history of illegal entry or stay in Spanish territory.
A clean criminal record for the last five years in all previous countries of residence.
Proof of health insurance or inclusion in the Spanish National Health system via employment.
The job must generally be listed as a 'Hard-to-Fill' position or pass the labour market test.
Applicant must not be suffering from any disease with serious public health implications.
Submission of application must happen within 1 month of the work authorisation being granted.

Documents you'll need

Valid passport with at least two blank pages and 1 year validity
Form EX-03 (Authorisation to work) for employees
National Visa Application Form signed by the applicant
Original and copy of the employment contract stamped by Spanish Immigration
Police clearance certificate from countries of residence in the last 5 years
Medical certificate confirming no infectious diseases (International Health Regs)
Proof of legal residence in the country where the application is filed
Professional qualification certificates or evidence of experience

How to apply, step by step

1
Employer Authorisation
Your employer in Spain applies for a work and residence authorisation (Autorización de residencia y trabajo) at the local Foreigners' Office.
2
Book Consular Appointment
Once the authorisation is approved, you have exactly one month to book and attend your visa appointment at the Spanish Consulate.
3
Document Preparation
Gather all required documents, including your medical certificate and police check, ensuring all are translated into Spanish by a sworn translator.
4
Submission and Interview
Attend the interview at the consulate to submit your application and pay the non-refundable visa fee.
5
Visa Collection & Travel
Once the visa is approved, collect your passport with the visa sticker. You must enter Spain within the timeframe specified on the visa (usually 90 days).
6
Apply for the TIE Card
Within one month of entering Spain, register with Social Security and apply for your Foreign ID Card (TIE) at the local police station.

Tips to avoid refusal

Ensure all foreign documents are legalised with an Apostille stamp or via the appropriate diplomatic channel.
Use a 'Traductor Jurado' (Sworn Translator) for all documents not already in Spanish.
Don't quit your current job until the initial work authorisation is confirmed by the Spanish ministry.
Check that your medical certificate uses the specific Spanish wording regarding the 2005 International Health Regulations.
Ensure your passport has at least one year of validity remaining at the time of application.
Be prepared to show your employer's financial capacity to pay your salary if requested.
Keep copies of every document submitted, as originals are often retained or required for the TIE application.

Frequently asked questions

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Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.

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