Want to move to Spain for work? Whether you’re a skilled professional, seasonal worker, or company transfer, a Spanish work visa opens the door to legal employment and long-term residency.
In this guide, we explain how to apply, which visas exist, and how a Spain work visa lawyer can ensure you avoid costly mistakes or rejections.
🇪🇸 What Is a Spain Work Visa?
A Spain work visa allows non-EU citizens to live and work legally in Spain. There are several types, each with specific criteria and processes.
✅ Live and work in Spain legally
✅ Pathway to residency and citizenship
✅ Family reunification options available
✅ Requires employer sponsorship or self-employment plan
⚠️ These visas are not automatic. Employers must often prove they can’t find an EU citizen to do the job.
🧳 Who Needs a Work Visa?
You need a work visa if:
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You’re a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national
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You have a job offer in Spain
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You plan to work as a freelancer or start a business
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You want to transfer to a Spanish branch of your employer
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need a visa, but may still need to register and obtain an NIE.
📂 Types of Spain Work Visas
There are multiple types of work permits based on your employment situation.
1. 👨💼 Regular Employment Visa (Cuenta Ajena)
For most standard jobs in Spain.
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Job offer from a Spanish employer
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Employer must request authorization first
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Job must be listed as difficult to fill (or prove labor shortage)
✅ Valid for 1 year, renewable
✅ Can lead to permanent residency
2. 🧑🎓 Highly Qualified Professional Visa (HQP)
For skilled workers with higher education or specialized skills.
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Minimum salary threshold
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Must meet educational and experience requirements
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Employer applies for a residence permit as highly qualified worker
✅ Faster processing
✅ Often tied to multinational companies or tech/startups
3. 💻 EU Blue Card
For highly skilled non-EU workers with a university degree and high salary.
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Must meet salary benchmark (usually 1.5x national average)
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Includes residence and work rights across the EU
4. 🚚 Seasonal Work Visa
For temporary agricultural or tourism jobs.
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Employer must provide housing and transport
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Typically short-term (3–9 months)
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Must return home after contract ends
5. 📈 Self-Employed or Entrepreneur Visa
For freelancers, digital professionals, or those launching a business in Spain.
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Requires detailed business plan
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Proof of funds and economic viability
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Local market approval of proposed activity
📋 General Requirements
While specifics vary, all applicants must typically show:
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Valid passport
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Signed employment contract or business plan
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Proof of qualifications (translated and legalized)
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Clean criminal record certificate
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Private or public health insurance
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Proof of sufficient financial means
📌 All documents from abroad must be translated into Spanish and apostilled.
🧑⚖️ Why Use a Spain Work Visa Lawyer?
Work visa applications often fail due to:
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Incorrect paperwork
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Rejected job offers (not on labor shortage list)
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Incomplete translations
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Delays with employer authorizations
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Problems with criminal record certificates
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Vague business plans (for self-employed)
A Spain immigration lawyer helps you:
✅ Choose the right type of visa for your role
✅ Draft or review contracts and business plans
✅ Ensure legal compliance for employer sponsorship
✅ File all paperwork correctly and on time
✅ Avoid long delays or rejection from Extranjería
📍 Where to Apply
The process varies depending on the visa:
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For regular work visas, your employer must apply first in Spain. After approval, you submit documents to the Spanish consulate in your home country.
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For self-employment or entrepreneur visas, you submit your own application directly.
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For highly qualified or Blue Card visas, a streamlined path often applies.
Our lawyers handle the process for clients worldwide, including from:
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USA, Canada, Australia, UK
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Argentina, Mexico, Colombia
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Philippines, India, South Africa
👨👩👧 Bringing Family with You
Most work visas allow for family reunification:
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Spouse or registered partner
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Children under 18
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Dependent parents (in some cases)
Family members can receive residence permits and, in some cases, work authorization.
🔁 After Arrival in Spain
Once in Spain with your visa, you must:
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Apply for your NIE number
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Register with your local town hall (empadronamiento)
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Get your TIE card (residence ID)
Our lawyers can accompany you to appointments or handle the process on your behalf.
👨⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
We specialize in helping foreign professionals work and live legally in Spain. Our services include:
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Full legal assessment of your eligibility
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Employer support for authorization requests
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Visa application review and submission
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Translations and apostille guidance
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NIE, TIE, and social security registration
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Appeals for denied work visas
📞 Book a consultation today and take the first step toward your new job and life in Spain.
💬 Ready to Work in Spain?
Whether you’re a skilled professional, a seasonal worker, or a digital entrepreneur — we help you get the work visa you need. Don’t risk delays or denials. Let our lawyers handle the legal details.