Spain is facing an acute shortage of workers in 2024, so the country recently announced that it plans to grant work and residence permits to 300,000 migrants in 2025. Find out what ways to move to Spain are available to expats and what will change for foreigners in the country in 2025

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Spain is currently facing a labor shortage, so the country’s government has announced plans to accept 300,000 undocumented migrants each year. The rule will come into effect in 2025. The main goal of this move is to boost the economy and support an aging workforce. We will discuss the changes for foreigners in Spain in 2025 and what work visa options are currently available later in this article.

What will change in the employment process in Spain in 2025?

In 2025, Spain plans to grant work and residence permits to 300,000 undocumented migrants. This policy change opens the door for businesses looking for skilled workers and for individuals hoping to build a new life in Spain.

Characteristics of the Spanish labor market

The Spanish labor market currently has the following characteristics:

1. High unemployment rate – one of the highest in the European Union, but also in first place among globalized countries.

2. Very high youth unemployment rate, close to 60%.

3. Most contracts are temporary.

4. High demographic concentration of vacancies and areas with the highest unemployment. Madrid, Catalonia and the Basque Country are the regions of Spain with the highest number of job offers.

5. The emergence of new forms of work, such as teleworking.

6. Strong impetus towards self-employment or freelance work.

7. Most job offers are in the service sector.

What is important for a foreigner to know before going to Spain to work?

Depending on the company and the sector, some professions are more popular than others. However, in general, the following trends are currently noticeable in the Spanish labor market:

- The need for specialists with higher education or qualifications, especially technical, related to new technologies or of a more economic nature.

- Knowledge of languages, especially English. There is also a growing demand for specialists with knowledge of Chinese.

- Many jobs require experience in the chosen field or general skills.

- Availability of mobility, in some cases international.

- Possession and knowledge of new technologies, especially related to the Internet.

You will need health insurance to safely move and find employment in a new country. You can issue an extended policy on our website using the link.

Requirements for a foreigner to work in Spain

Foreign citizens who wish to carry out any professional or labor activity for the purpose of generating profit, whether as an individual entrepreneur or an employee, need a work visa to Spain, which can only be obtained at the Spanish consulate in the country of residence.

Types of Work Visas in Spain

Spain offers a variety of work visas for foreign professionals, from seasonal positions to highly skilled positions and investment opportunities.

1. General Work Visa

For those who have a job offer from a Spanish employer, valid for one year with the possibility of renewal if the position cannot be filled by a local specialist.

- Suitable for those who have a job offer from a Spanish employer.

- The employer must prove that a local candidate cannot fill the position.

- This visa is usually issued for one year and can be renewed.

2. EU Blue Card

A visa for highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries with a job offer that meets salary criteria, facilitating the path to permanent residence.

Designed for highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries.

- Applicants must have a job offer with a salary that meets the national threshold.

- Provides an easier path to permanent residency.

3. Seasonal Work Visa

Ideal for short-term work in agriculture or tourism. Issued for six to nine months, taking into account specific seasonal needs.

4. Self-Employment Visa

For freelancers or entrepreneurs starting a business. Requires a business plan and proof of financial stability to obtain.

5. Digital Nomad Visa

For non-residents who wish to work remotely for a foreign employer while living in Spain, usually issued for one year.

6. Golden Visa

Investor visa for those who will make a significant contribution to the Spanish economy, offering a residence permit and potential citizenship for qualified investments.

In 2025, foreigners will have more employment opportunities in Spain, so be sure to pay attention to this country if you are planning to migrate abroad next year.

Reminder! A large number of foreigners choose Spain for employment because of the low cost of living and comfortable working conditions. Read here how a foreigner can get a job in Spain and what is needed for this.

Igor Usyk - Head of Legal Department at Visit World

To ensure a safe move to Spain, I advise you to contact a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration abroad.

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