Permits and visas for residing and working in Spain that you should know about

Do you dream of having a stable life and work in Spain? This article reveals the most attractive routes to establish residency and employment in our country. From visas to job opportunities, we provide you with the essential guide to start your exciting professional journey. Read on and find out how to turn your dream into reality, join us!

What residence permits are currently available in Spain?

In the context of immigration in Spain, it is important to know the different residence permits available for foreigners. These permits provide the possibility to legally settle in the country and enjoy the corresponding rights and benefits.

1. Temporary residence: medium-term stay in Spain

This permit allows foreigners to reside and work in Spain temporarily. For a period of more than 90 days and less than 5 years. This is a solution for those seeking to settle for a certain period of time in the country.

2. Long-term or permanent residence: full integration

Long-term or permanent residence authorizes foreigners to live and work in Spain under the same conditions as Spanish citizens. However, certain criteria must be met, including having resided in the country for at least 5 years.

You may also be interested in: Can a foreigner drive in Spain?

What are the Residence Permits for Non-EU Foreigners? 

There are several types of residence permits designed for foreigners who do not belong to the European Union. Some are used to work in Spain and others are not.  We explain each of them:

1. Student Visa: educational boost in Spain

This visa is specifically for non-EU foreigners who wish to study in Spain. Whether it is a university degree, master’s degree, doctorate or participate in a research project. To obtain it, it is necessary to be enrolled in an official and regulated center or institution.

Interested? See the requirements below: 

2. Entrepreneur visa

If you are a foreign entrepreneur with the ambition to launch a professional project in Spain, this is the answer. The entrepreneur visa is your way to legally reside in the country. However, it is important to keep in mind that it is one of the most demanding in terms of requirements and selection. However, it is the fastest option to work in Spain for entrepreneurial purposes. 

To obtain this visa, it is essential that the Ministry of Economy and the UGE (Unidad de Grandes Empresas y Colectivos Estratégicos) approve your business plan. These institutions are rigorous and highly selective, so preparing your business plan in great detail is essential for a successful application.

3. Highly qualified professional visa: access to specialized job opportunities

Do you have a job offer for a highly qualified position? This visa is your ideal option to work in Spain. You can be granted residency as an individual who will occupy positions of responsibility with an annual remuneration of more than 40,000 €.

4. Community Card: simplified access for family members of European citizens.

If you are a relative of a European Union citizen, you can easily obtain the EU card and permission to work in Spain. This card is granted on the basis of your relationship with a Spanish person.

In case your partner is Spanish, you can obtain the EU card through the constitution of marriage or domestic partnership.

5. Family reunification 

If you have been residing in Spain for at least 1 year, you can opt for the family reunification visa policy. This option allows you to bring your partner, children and/or parents to the country.

The requirements to apply for family reunification include: 

• Parents or children of European citizens may opt for family roots as a way to obtain residency in Spain. This permit is based on special family relationships and is an important way to settle in the country.
• These visas and permits offer various possibilities to reside and work in Spain. Whether it is to start a business or to join family members. If you would like to learn more about these processes and the options that fit your specific situation, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to guide you on your way to a successful experience in Spain.

You may also be interested in: Requirements for requesting a letter of invitation to Spain

Formalities and documentation to apply for residency in Spain

The process and requirements to apply for a residence permit in Spain vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin. For European citizens, the process is quick and simple. For non-EU citizens, the process is more complex and can take months before receiving a resolution.

Documentation for community residents

European citizens and those belonging to the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland must present the Foreigner’s Identity Card (NIE) and the European Union Registration Certificate. Both are required to apply for legal residence and to be able to work in Spain. This permit is permanent and does not expire, and can be obtained in only 24 hours by fulfilling certain requirements.

Residency requirements for EU citizens

• Proof of income (paycheck or at least €6,000 in a bank account).
• Private medical insurance.

Documentation for non-EU foreigners

Non-EU foreigners need the Residence Card to apply for a residence permit in Spain. However, they can also opt for the Community Card by proving a family relationship with an EU citizen as mentioned above. Thus, you will be able to work in Spain without any problem. 

Residency requirements for non-EU foreigners

• Passport and photocopy of the same.
• Criminal Record Certificate without records for the last 5 years.
• 3 passport-size photographs.
• Private health insurance in case you are unemployed.
• Completed application form for the permit of your choice.

Renewal of residence permit: a step towards indefinite residence

Already living and working in Spain? If you wish to continue living indefinitely, it is essential to renew your residence permit. The renewal process involves demonstrating that you continue to meet the initial application requirements. Learn about the documentation and requirements you need to fulfill to carry out your renewal process:

You may also be interested in: All about the residence permit for investors

These processes and requirements provide legal avenues to settle in Spain.  Either temporarily or indefinitely, depending on the circumstances of your case.

If you need additional assistance or more details about the process of working in Spain, do not hesitate to contact us at tasconsultoria@tas-sl.es! We are here to help you navigate these procedures and facilitate your experience in our country.