Work Visas and Immigration in Spain

Visas for foreign nationals

In Spain, hiring foreigners without valid work permits can result in fines ranging from €501 EUR to €10,000 EUR per worker, legal action, or suspension of business activities. The Spanish government enforces strict regulations to ensure employment opportunities are first available to Spanish citizens unless specialized skills are required. Therefore, Spain has structured skilled migration programs for foreigners, with provisions for highly skilled professionals in sectors like engineering, healthcare, information technology, and finance. These workers may apply for a Spanish employment visa:​ 

• Highly Qualified Professional (HQP) Visa: For professionals with advanced degrees and job offers in Spain.​ 
• EU Blue Card: For non-EU nationals with high qualifications and a binding job offer.​ 
• Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa: For employees transferred within the same company to a Spanish branch.​ 

Foreigners may also apply for a Short-Term Business Visa, which is issued for attending meetings, conferences, or training sessions in Spain. It does not permit full-time employment in a Spanish company.

Sponsorship and employer responsibilities

Hiring a foreign national in Spain requires compliance with immigration and labor regulations. Employers must ensure that both the position and the candidate meet the criteria defined by the Spanish immigration authorities and the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration. 

Eligibility criteria 

• The role must align with the applicant’s qualifications and, if applicable, be listed as a shortage occupation. 
• The candidate must present recognized vocational or academic credentials. 
• The employer must offer a binding employment contract with equitable working conditions. 

Required documentation 

• Job offer or signed employment contract specifying salary, duties, and workplace 
• Recognition of foreign qualifications 
• Proof of salary meeting national or Blue Card thresholds 
• Completed visa application forms and biometric passport 
• Medical certificate and criminal record check 
• Authorization from the Spanish labor authorities, if required 

Post-arrival requirements 

• Application for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) at the local Foreigner's Office within 30 days of arrival 
• Registration with the local municipality (Empadronamiento) 
• Enrollment in the Spanish Social Security system 
• Employers must report employment changes and maintain personnel documentation for inspection