How to work in Spain: Opportunities and requirements

To work in Spain is to open the door to Europe itself. Spain has always been a meeting point of cultures, and today it remains an open and welcoming country full of possibilities. The job market brings together long-standing traditions and fast growing industries, while every region offers a lifestyle of its own, from the vibrant energy of Madrid and Barcelona to the peaceful rhythm of the coast and the charm of its rural towns.

Here you’ll find not only opportunities to grow in your career, but also an environment that values talent, diversity, and a strong sense of community. In this guide, we clearly explain the requirements you’ll need to meet and share practical tips to help you take the next step with confidence and peace of mind.

Advantages of working in Spain

Working in Spain offers a blend of advantages that go far beyond your professional life, making it an appealing choice for anyone seeking stability, growth, and a high quality of life.

• High quality of life: Spain stands out for its pleasant climate, diverse cuisine, rich culture, and a way of life that balances productivity with time to enjoy leisure and family.
• Public healthcare system: Access to one of the highest-rated public healthcare systems in Europe is a great benefit for residents and their families.
• Geographic and cultural diversity: From bustling cosmopolitan cities to charming small towns, working here gives you the freedom to choose the environment that best fits your lifestyle.
• International community: Spain welcomes thousands of foreign professionals every year, making it easier to integrate and network in different sectors.
• Labor protection: Spanish labor laws ensure rights such as paid vacation, rest periods, and social protection, providing workers with a sense of security.
• Opportunities in key sectors: Tourism, technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and education are fields with strong demand for professionals, both from within Spain and abroad.

Requirements for working in Spain

The procedures for working in Spain vary depending on your nationality and the route you choose. Here are the details:

If you are a citizen of the EU/EEA or Switzerland

• Right to work without prior permission: You can start working without a visa or work permit. If you stay longer than three months, you must register with the Central Register of Foreigners, where you will receive a Registration Certificate with your NIE. The registration should generally be completed within three months of your arrival.
• Social Security Number (NUSS/NAF): Required for employment registration and social security contributions; you can apply for it online.
• Residence registration (municipal register): Proves your usual place of residence and is required for many procedures and access to services.

If you are not from the EU/EEA or Switzerland (third countries)

• Employed (employee): It requires an initial residence and work permit tied to a job offer or contract. The employer handles the process, and it is usually applied for from your home country.
• Self-employed (freelancer): Self-employed authorization with business plan, licenses, and financial resources.
• International teleworking (“digital nomad” visa): It allows you to live in Spain while working remotely for foreign companies. Requires proof of your professional relationship along with other criteria.
• Working students: Under the new regulations, students can work up to 30 hours a week while studying, in a schedule that can be balanced with their academic commitments.
• The 2013 Entrepreneurs and Internationalization Support Act (Law 14/2013) introduced a special procedure to attract talent and investment to Spain. Applications are processed through the Unit for Large Companies and Strategic Groups (UGE-CE), part of the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration.

Standard requirements (depending on route)

• Valid passport and, where applicable, national visa in accordance with the authorization requested. (Check with your consulate for specific visa requirements).
• Criminal record and medical certificate when required by the consular procedure; these usually require legalization/apostille and certified translation. 
• NIE, TIE (if applicable), and Social Security registration: The NIE serves as your identification, and if you obtain residency, you will receive a TIE. To work, registration and a Social Security number are essential.
• Accreditation/recognition of qualifications: For regulated professions (health, education, etc.). For non-regulated professions, the employer decides.
• Language: There is no general legal requirement for Spanish language proficiency, but knowing Spanish is essential for most jobs. Certain professions may require language skills due to sector-specific regulations.
• Registration and bank account: Registration proves your address and facilitates administrative procedures. Many companies require a Spanish bank account for payroll purposes.

Tips for starting work in Spain

Starting your career in Spain becomes much smoother when you come prepared with a plan and the right resources. These tips will guide you through the necessary steps, help you adapt quickly, and get the most out of your first weeks living and working in the country.

• Define your legal status before flying. Decide whether you want to work as an employee, start your own business, use the UGE‑Law 14/2013 route, work remotely for a foreign company, or study while working. Picking the right path helps you stay organized and avoid repeating steps.
• Get online from the moment you land. Get a Holafly eSIM with a monthly plan to have mobile data from the moment you arrive and for the first few months. It makes it easy to access maps, book appointments, use online banking, and stay in touch with employers without relying on Wi‑Fi.
• Prepare a folder of documents that are “ready to send”. Have a valid passport, a CV in Spanish, your degrees and certificates (with an apostille or sworn translation if required), references, and an offer letter or contract if you already have one. Make sure to digitize everything as PDF files.
• Optimize your professional profile. Tailor your CV and LinkedIn profile for the Spanish job market, using industry keywords, measurable achievements, and a portfolio if relevant. Prepare both a short and a detailed version.
• Get an address and proof of residence. Book temporary accommodation with a contract or proof of stay. It will help you register your address and complete other common procedures when working in Spain.
• Understand your obligations as an employee or freelancer. If you’re an employee, check your collective agreement, working hours, probation period, and extra payments. If you’re self-employed, make sure you understand registration with the tax office and RETA, invoicing, and VAT requirements.
• Adjust salary and cost of living expectations by city. Barcelona and Madrid typically offer higher salaries but also higher rent, while other regions can provide a better balance for those starting out.
• Improve your language skills. It is not always a legal requirement, but speaking Spanish and sometimes co-official languages or English can make a big difference in interviews and daily life.
• Sign clearly. Before accepting a job offer, ask for the contract and a breakdown of your pay, including annual gross salary, deductions, bonuses, and benefits. Avoid starting work without having all the paperwork finalized.
• Financial landing plan. Carry enough savings to cover 2–3 months of initial expenses (rent deposit, transportation, paperwork) while your first paycheck stabilizes.

Types of jobs in Spain for foreigners

Here you have, the most common opportunities for working in Spain if you come from abroad, with what each sector usually requires:

The jobs most in demand in Spain for foreigners

• Healthcare professionals. Nurses, general practitioners, and specialists continue to be in high demand, especially in regions with fewer healthcare staff or during periods of peak workload.
• Technology specialists. Software developers, cybersecurity specialists, and experts in artificial intelligence and data are among the most sought-after professionals, particularly in tech companies and digital service providers.
• Renewable energy technicians. Solar panel installers, maintenance technicians, and wind energy specialists have strong prospects thanks to the push for the energy transition.
• Industrial maintenance workers. Welders, electromechanics, and repair technicians play a key role in industries such as metalworking, automotive, and manufacturing.
• Multilingual customer service agents. The growth of support centers and BPOs in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Málaga has created strong job opportunities for professionals who speak German, French, Dutch, or English.
• Multilingual kitchen and dining room staff. In the hospitality industry, professionals who can communicate with international tourists have more job opportunities, especially during peak seasons.
• Logistics and warehouse workers: The rise of e-commerce continues to drive demand for warehouse workers, order pickers, and delivery drivers.

Salaries and cost of living in Spain

Salaries in Spain can vary widely depending on the industry, location, and your level of experience. The national average is around $2,200 net per month, with higher earnings in specialized fields such as technology, engineering, and healthcare, where salaries can exceed $3,800–$5,400 net. On the other hand, entry-level positions in hospitality, retail, and logistics tend to be closer to the national minimum wage, currently set at about $1,200 gross per month. Major cities and economic hubs generally offer better pay, though living costs are also higher.

When it comes to expenses, living in Spain typically costs between $1,300 and $2,200 per month for one person, depending on the city and your lifestyle. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Madrid or Barcelona usually runs around $870 to $1,300, while in smaller cities it can range from $540 to $760. Basic utilities add about $110–$165, groceries around $220–$325, and transportation or leisure between $220–$430. With an average salary, it’s generally possible to cover essential expenses and still save a bit, especially if you live in an area with a more affordable cost of living.

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Where can I find job opportunities in Spain?

• Online job portals: The quickest and easiest way to find job opportunities in Spain. InfoJobs is the go-to platform, offering a wide range of listings and smart filters to search by field or location. Indeed and LinkedIn are also widely used and make applying straightforward. Infoempleo is another solid option, featuring both local and international openings.
• Specialized apps and platforms: Job Today is great for finding work in hospitality, retail, or customer service, offering fast and simple hiring processes. Jobandtalent, which operates as a digital temp agency, connects candidates with short-term or temporary jobs and streamlines hiring and document management.
• European Employment Network (EURES): This official service connects job seekers with vacancies across the European Union and provides career guidance, information about working conditions, and relocation support. It’s especially useful if you’re coming from another European country or looking to move within the EU.
• Hiring from abroad (GECCO Program): This initiative allows Spanish companies to recruit foreign workers directly in their home country, particularly in sectors like agriculture and industry. It includes a visa, work permit, and relocation support, with contracts usually specifying a return date.
• Temporary work and recruitment agencies: Companies like Randstad, Adecco, and Manpower act as intermediaries between employers and candidates. Offering temporary positions and permanent contracts. They also help you access opportunities more quickly and assist with initial paperwork.
• Public job openings and integration programs: Organizations like the State Public Employment Service (SEPE) regularly post public or subsidized job opportunities. In addition, NGOs and organizations such as CEAR or Accem run programs for migrants and refugees that provide training and support to enter the job market.

Frequently asked questions about working in Spain

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Paula Henderson

Spanish-English Translator

Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍

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