Practical guide to applying for a work visa for Spain

Would you like to work in Spain? Are you looking for new job opportunities in the country? Find out how with this guide to applying for a work visa for Spain.

If you are considering working in Spain, one of the first things you need to understand is the process for applying for a work visa. Spain offers job opportunities to people of different nationalities, but the application process may seem complicated at first glance.

What is a Work Visa for Spain?

It is a permit issued by the Spanish authorities that allows foreign nationals to reside and work in the country for a certain period of time. This type of visa is subject to different requirements and procedures, depending on the nationality of the applicant and the type of work to be performed in Spain.

How to apply for a work visa

1. Define your professional objectives and assess whether Spain is the best option for you.

Before starting the visa application process, it is essential to be clear about your professional goals and whether Spain is the right country to achieve them. Research the Spanish labour market, the opportunities available in your field of work and consider whether the working conditions and lifestyle match your expectations.

2. Find an employer or entrepreneurship

In many cases, you will need to have a job offer or start a business initiative in Spain before applying for a work visa. If you are seeking employment, it is essential to ensure that your employer is willing to sponsor your visa and provide you with the necessary documents to support your application.

3. Determine the type of work visa you require

Before starting the application process, it is crucial to determine the type of work visa you need based on your work and personal situation. In Spain, there are different categories of work visas, the most common of which include:

• Work visa: for those who have received an offer of employment from a Spanish company.
• Self-employment visa: for entrepreneurs who wish to set up their own business in Spain.
• Highly Skilled Professionals Visa: aimed at people with specialised skills and experience in specific sectors.
• Digital nomad visa: for remote workers who wish to reside in Spain while working for employers outside the country.

4. Gather the required documentation

The documentation required to apply for a work visa may vary depending on the type of visa and the individual situation of the applicant. Here is a list of the most required documents for the processing of this visa:

• Valid and valid passport. It is essential to have a valid passport with a validity that covers at least the period of time during which you plan to reside and work in Spain. Be sure to check the expiry date of your passport and plan for renewal if necessary before starting the visa application process.
• Duly completed visa application form. This form collects personal information, details about the purpose of the visit, information about the stay in Spain, among other relevant data. It is important to complete it accurately and to ensure that no required details are omitted.
• Criminal record certificate. This document certifies that you do not have a criminal record and is issued by the competent authorities of your home country or the country where you have resided for a significant period of time. It is important to apply for this certificate well in advance, as it may take time to obtain it, depending on the procedures and processing times in your country.
• Medical certificate. The medical certificate is usually required to prove that you are in good health and do not represent a risk to public health in Spain. It may include a general physical examination, tests for communicable diseases and vaccinations, as required by the Spanish authorities. Be sure to follow the specific guidelines provided by the Spanish embassy or consulate regarding obtaining this certificate.
• Employment contract or job offer letter. The employment contract or job offer letter is an essential document to support your application for a work visa. These documents should clearly detail the terms and conditions of your employment, including the duration of the contract, salary, job responsibilities and any other relevant terms. Make sure you obtain these documents from your employer before you start the visa application process.
• Authorisations and activity licences. In cases of entrepreneurship, all necessary authorisations and licences to start the activity must be provided.
• Training and professional qualification. It is required to submit original documents and copies proving that you are qualified according to the professional qualification legally required to exercise this profession.
• Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in Spain. It is important to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay in Spain, especially if you are not in guaranteed employment at the time of your visa application. This may include bank statements, proof of income, or any other document that demonstrates your ability to cover your expenses while in Spain.
• Medical insurance valid in Spain. Spanish law requires work visa applicants to have valid medical insurance that provides coverage during their stay in the country. Medical insurance should include coverage for medical and hospital expenses, as well as repatriation in case of medical emergency. Make sure you obtain health insurance that meets the requirements set by the Spanish authorities.

Fulfilling all documentation requirements is essential to ensure a successful application for a self-employed visa in Spain.

At Morales Asencio, we understand the complexity of the process and we are here to help you gather all the necessary documentation in the legally required manner. Our team can guide you through the whole process, avoiding errors and delays in the application. Do not hesitate to contact us for personalised advice and assistance with your application for a work visa in Spain.

5. Apply for a work visa

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you will need to submit your visa application. It is important to carefully follow the instructions provided by the embassy and ensure that you meet all specific application requirements.

6. Follow up on your application

After submitting your application, it is essential to follow up regularly on the status of your visa. Processing time may vary by agency and workload, so it is important to be patient and prepared for any additional requests for documentation.

Applying for a work visa for Spain can be a challenging process, but with proper preparation and an understanding of the essential steps, you can increase your chances of success. Make sure you start the process well in advance and provide all required documentation accurately and completely.

We help you to make your professional project in Spain a reality. Contact us today to start the process and ensure your professional success in the country. We are here to help you achieve your goals!