Spain is not only a place to find work and employment, but also a unique destination to enjoy life. With its sunny climate, historical cities, friendly people and unique cuisine, living here is a real privilege. While big cities like Madrid and Barcelona offer excellent opportunities to develop your career with dynamic job opportunities and modern lifestyle, cities like Valencia, Seville and Malaga are ideal for those looking for a calmer and more affordable life. In addition, thanks to its balanced work-life culture, long siestas, weekend beach getaways and colorful festivals, it is possible to enjoy life while working in Spain. If you want to both develop your career and have a pleasant life, Spain is definitely a country to consider!
So how can you find a job as an expat in Spain? How does the process work for non-European citizens? Is it possible to work in Spain without fluent Spanish? You can find the answers to all these questions and important tips on the process of finding a job in Spain in this guide!
Guide to Working in Spain
The job market in Spain varies by sector and city. Tourism, gastronomy, agriculture, education and technology sectors are the most suitable for foreigners across the country. For example, seasonal jobs in tourist areas are popular with many foreign nationals moving to Spain. The thriving hospitality, entertainment and real estate sectors are an important part of the country’s economy, especially in high-tourism areas such as the Costa Blanca.
There are also shortages of workers in other sectors. For example, there is a shortage of doctors and nurses in the health sector in Spain. According to a report by the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training, employers in Spain are hiring legal and health professionals, information and technology specialists, sales representatives, engineers, researchers and teachers.
Types of Jobs in Spain for Foreigners
- Tourism and Hospitality: In tourist cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, Seville and Valencia, hotels, restaurants and travel agencies are often in need of foreign workers.
- English Teaching: One of the most suitable jobs, especially for those who do not speak Spanish, may be English teaching. Language schools and private tutoring opportunities are available.
- Technology and IT: Madrid and Barcelona are fast-growing cities in the technology sector. English-speaking professionals are sought after in areas such as software development, artificial intelligence and digital marketing.
- Agriculture and Seasonal Jobs: The Andalusia region is one of the regions with the highest agricultural production. Seasonal workers can find jobs picking oranges, olives and grapes.
- Health and Care Sector: Spain has a large elderly population. New employees are constantly sought for elderly care centers and nursing jobs.
- Real Estate Companies: If you are open to new business opportunities in the real estate sector, you can apply to our company in Spain, Spain Homes!
Work Opportunities for Expats in Spain
Do I need a visa to work in Spain? In order to work in Spain, it makes a big difference whether you are a European Union (EU) citizen or not.
Work Permit for EU Citizens
If you are a citizen of a European Union (EU) country or the European Economic Area (EEA), you do not need an additional permit to work in Spain. You can start by simply obtaining a NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero - Foreign Identification Number) and a Social Security Number.
Work Permit for Non-EU Citizens
If you are not an EU citizen, you must complete the following processes to be able to work in Spain:
- Obtaining a Work Visa: Your employer must apply for a work permit for you. Without a work permit, you cannot work legally.
- Obtaining a NIE Number: Before you can start working, you must obtain a NIE number (Foreign Identification Number) in Spain. This number is required to complete your legal procedures and pay taxes.
- Obtaining a Social Security Registration: Before you can start working, you must obtain a social security number and insurance.
Work Permit Requirements in Spain
If you are new to the process of finding a job in Spain, obtaining your NIE number, researching job postings and learning about visa requirements are the best first steps. If you want to get more information about visas, you can also check out our article titled Spain Has Launched the Digital Nomad Visa Program!
Finding a job in Spain is a process that requires patience and strategy, especially for non-EU citizens. Knowledge of the language, networking, applying for the right visa and choosing the right sector will increase your chances of finding a job. For working in Spain without fluent Spanish, you can search for international companies and the tourism sectors! Without a work visa, you cannot work legally. Understanding the legal requirements for expat workers in Spain, what type of visa you need to apply for, and the job opportunities are critical to successfully finding a job.
Visa Types and Eligibility
There are several different types of work visas in Spain:
- Employee visa – granted to those who have an employment contract with a Spanish employer. The validity period may vary depending on the length of the employment contract.
- Work visas for freelancers – granted to those who are self-employed and have a residence permit.
- Entrepreneur visas – granted to entrepreneurs who plan to set up a business/company in Spain.
- Visas for highly qualified workers and intra-company transfers – granted to those who meet certain education and experience requirements or who are being transferred to an office in Spain.
- Student visa – Can I work in Spain with a student visa? Of course you can! However, international students must be enrolled in a full-time study programme in order to work and can work 20 hours per week. This period can be extended during holidays.
In order to apply for a work visa, a Spanish employer must first employ you and apply for a work permit on your behalf. Once the application is approved, you must collect the necessary documents for the visa and apply to the Spanish consulate in your country.
Visa requirements for working in Spain:
- passport (valid for at least 6 months),
- employment contract,
- employer's approval of the work permit application,
- professional qualification documents (diploma, certificates, etc.),
- criminal record,
- health report
- travel health insurance
After the visa is approved, you need to go to Spain and get an NIE number and social security registration. Although the process may seem complicated, by preparing the right documents and working in coordination with your employer, you can get your work visa without any problems!
How to Get a Job in Spain as an Expat?
Online Job Websites
One of the most common ways to find a job in Spain is through online job platforms. The following sites can help you in your job search:
- LinkedIn - You can reach job opportunities by making professional connections.
- Indeed - Ideal for international job advertisements.
- InfoJobs - The largest job advertisement site in Spain.
- Trabajos.com - Contains job advertisements from various sectors.
Networking and Making Business Connections
Networking is a great advantage when it comes to finding a job in Spain. You can join groups on LinkedIn about the Spanish job market, go to professional events and career fairs.
Cost of Living and Salaries in Spain
Salaries in Spain vary depending on the sector, city you live in and your experience. Average salaries are as follows:
- Minimum wage: €1,334 (for 2024)
- Average net salary: €1,785
- Highly qualified employees: €1,990 - €2,500
The cost of living in large cities like Madrid and Barcelona is more than €2,000 per month. However, it is possible to live more affordably in cities like Valencia, Seville and Malaga with living costs of €1,500 - €2,000 per month.
What Should Your CV Be Like When Applying for a Job in Spain?
In Spain, the CV (Curriculum Vitae) is the document that employers pay the most attention to when applying for a job. The preferred CV format in the Spanish job market is generally short, clear and concise, and should not exceed 1-2 pages. When applying to Spain, you can prepare your CV in accordance with European Standards (Europass) or in the classic professional format. The most commonly used format is the reverse chronological (backward from the last work experience) CV.
- Length: 1-2 pages (1 page if possible)
- Language: Spanish or English, depending on the job posting
- Font: Times New Roman, Arial or Calibri (11-12 points)
- Photo: CVs with photos are common in job applications in Spain. It is recommended that you include a professional passport photo.
Some tips:
- Prepare a CV specific to the job: Do not send the same CV everywhere, customize it according to the job posting.
- Watch out for grammar mistakes: If you’re writing in Spanish or English, check for grammar mistakes.
- Be visual: Use a clean and simple design. You can use Canva or Europass templates.
- Save as PDF: Send your CV in PDF format instead of Word.
A clear, professional and targeted CV will help you attract employers’ attention and help you find opportunities in the Spanish job market!
How to Write a Cover Letter When Applying for a Job in Spain?
When applying for a job in Spain, your letter of intent (carta de presentación) is as important as your CV. Employers carefully evaluate this letter to see your candidate’s motivation, skills and how they will fit in with the company.
At the beginning of your letter of intent, include your first and last name, contact information, and the date. Then, if you know the name of the employer or HR representative, address them directly. In the first paragraph, explain what position you are applying for and why you are a good fit for the job. Encourage the employer to continue reading the rest of the letter by making a short, clear, and compelling introduction. In the next section, explain your experience, areas of expertise, and how you can meet the employer’s needs. Focus on the job posting requirements and provide concrete examples. At the end of your letter of intent, don’t forget to thank the employer for their interest in your application!
Writing your letter of intent that is original, concise (maximum 1 page), and tailored to the job posting will increase your chances of being hired. If you don’t speak Spanish well, you can use a professional translation service or send it in English if the company accepts!
Before applying to job postings, creating a well-prepared CV and letter of intent in Spanish or English will greatly increase your chances of being hired. Start your preparations now and take the first step towards your new career in Spain!
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