SPANISH VISA INFORMATION
Third-country nationals require a national visa when they are going to stay in Spain for more than 90 days (in any 180-day period) for the purposes of work, study or establishing their residence. They also need a national visa when moving to Spain to work for a period of under 90 days.
Citizens of the European Union or of the States of the European Economic Area or Switzerland do not need a visa to establish their residence in Spain or for long-term studies or to work. However, once in Spain, they must be entered on the Register for Citizens of the Union. Family members accompanying them, and who benefit from the right to free movement, must apply for a residence permit in Spain. If they need a stay visa because of their nationality, they must obtain a visa for family members of a citizen of the Union.
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VISA OPTIONS
Employee Work Visa (Trabajo por Cuenta Ajena)
Who it’s for: Foreign nationals with a confirmed job offer from a Spanish company.
Duration: Typically 1 year, renewable in 2-year increments, leading to long-term residence after 5 years.
Requirements:
- Formal job offer/contract from a Spanish employer.
- Employer must demonstrate the role could not easily be filled by an EU/EEA citizen.
- Proof of qualifications or experience for the role.
- Clean criminal record and medical certificate.
Work rights: Full work rights with sponsoring employer. Changing jobs requires updating authorisation.
Self-Employed Work Visa (Trabajo por Cuenta Propia)
Who it’s for: Freelancers, independent professionals, or entrepreneurs working on their own.
Duration: Usually 1 year, renewable.
Requirements:
- Detailed business plan or proof of freelance contracts.
- Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself.
- Evidence of relevant qualifications/experience.
- Licenses/permits if required (e.g., for regulated professions).
Work rights: Can operate as an autónomo (self-employed) in Spain.
Non-Lucrative Residence Visa
Who it’s for: Retirees or financially independent people who want to live in Spain without working.
Duration: Initial 1 year, then renewable for 2-year periods.
Requirements:
- Proof of sufficient financial resources (often ~€28,000+ per year, plus ~€7,000 for each dependent).
- Private health insurance valid in Spain.
- Proof of accommodation.
Work rights: No work permitted (though after renewals it can sometimes be converted to a work permit).
Highly Qualified Professional Visa (including EU Blue Card)
Who it’s for: Skilled professionals hired into senior or technical roles, or researchers/lecturers.
Duration: Typically 2 years, renewable.
Requirements:
- University degree or professional expertise.
- Job offer in a role that is managerial, technical, or requiring advanced qualifications.
- Salary threshold (often higher than average Spanish wage).
- For EU Blue Card: minimum 1-year contract and proof qualifications match the role.
Work rights: Full work rights, easier mobility within EU if holding Blue Card.
Digital Nomad Visa (since 2023)
Who it’s for: Remote workers employed by non-Spanish companies, or freelancers with mostly foreign clients.
Duration: 1 year initially, extendable up to 5 years.
Requirements:
- Proof of remote work contract or freelance contracts (at least 80% of income from outside Spain).
- Minimum income threshold (approx. €2,200–€2,500/month).
- Professional/academic qualifications or 3+ years of work experience.
- Proof of health insurance.
Work rights: Allowed to work remotely for foreign companies; may take limited Spanish clients if income cap respected.
Entrepreneur Visa (Start-up Visa)
Who it’s for: Entrepreneurs planning to launch innovative or high-impact businesses in Spain.
Duration: Initial 2 years, renewable.
Requirements:
- Innovative business plan approved by Spain’s Directorate-General for International Trade and Investment.
- Proof of sufficient financial backing to support yourself and the venture.
- Clean record, health insurance.
Work rights: Yes, to manage and operate your business.