Spain opens up new opportunities for foreigners: from May 20, 2025, the jobseeker visa is valid all year round and gives you the chance to legally find a job or start a business in the EU. Find out a short list of requirements, stages of processing and opportunities that this visa opens up

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From May 20, 2025, Spain has significantly simplified the conditions for obtaining a Job Seeker Visa, increasing the permitted period of employment from 90 days to 12 months. This opens up new opportunities for foreigners who want to legally live, work or do business in the EU.

In this article, we explain in detail who is eligible for this visa, what conditions must be met, how to apply and how to switch from a temporary permit to a full-fledged work visa.

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What is a job seeker visa in Spain?

The Spanish job seeker visa is a special type of national visa that allows citizens of countries outside the European Union to stay in Spain for up to 12 months to look for work or start their own business. In case of successful employment or registration of a business, the visa can be converted into a residence and work permit.

Who is eligible to apply for a job seeker visa in Spain?

According to migration legislation, documents can be obtained by foreigners who fall into one of the following categories:

- Children and grandchildren of Spaniards.

- Representatives of professions that are in demand in Spain, provided that they reside in certain territories.

Important! The list of professions and territories is determined each year by the Ministerial Order on Collective Management of Employment, according to the situation on the labor market.

Basic requirements for an applicant for a Spanish job seeker visa

According to article 38 of the Immigration Regulations, you must:

1. Submit a correctly completed and signed application.

2. Not be in Spain illegally.

3. Not be on the list of persons prohibited from entering.

4. Have a valid passport (at least 12 months before expiration).

5. Provide a certificate of no criminal record.

6. Have private health insurance valid in Spain.

7. Confirm the availability of funds for your stay in Spain – at least €7,200 per year.

8. Obtain a medical certificate stating that there are no threats to public health.

9. Proof of suitability for the chosen profession or origin (if you are a descendant of a Spaniard).

A package of documents for obtaining a Spanish job seeker visa

- Passport

- Education diploma (if necessary)

- Health insurance

- Proof of funds (bank statement)

- Certificate of no criminal record

- Medical certificate

- Motivation letter

- Visa application

- Confirmation of your status (study visa/legal stay).

How to apply for a visa to find a job in Spain?

Step 1 – Check if you meet the requirements for a Spanish job seeker visa

In particular, you must be a descendant of a Spanish citizen or have one of the shortage professions. In general, the country has a shortage of specialists to work in the following sectors: technology and IT, education, healthcare and nursing, construction and skilled trades, hospitality and tourism, business, finance and consulting, agriculture and environmental sciences.

The exact list of professions and areas is determined each year by the Ministerial Order on Collective Management of Employment, according to the situation on the labor market.

Step 2 - Submitting documents

The visa application must be submitted to the Spanish consulate in your country.

Step 3 - Obtaining a visa

If approved, you will be entitled to stay legally in Spain for 12 months to look for work within the specified professions and regions.

Step 4 - Go to Spain and look for work there

During the year, you have the opportunity to find a job according to the established criteria (profession and area).

Step 5 – Obtaining a residence and work permit

If you have signed an employment contract, your employer must apply for an initial temporary residence and work permit. Only after its approval can you officially work.

Step 6 – Registration with the social security system

The work permit becomes effective from the moment the employee is registered with the Spanish social security system.

Step 7 – Obtaining a foreigner identification card (TIE)

After registration, you need to go to the police and apply for a TIE – a foreigner identification card.

How long does it take to process a job seeker visa application in Spain?

According to the new rules, the processing of an application for a permit should take no longer than 10 working days. However, in practice, this process may take longer than expected.

A Spanish job seeker visa allows you to legally stay in the country for up to 12 months in search of work or to start a business. Since May 20, 2025, the conditions for obtaining it have become simpler and more favorable, so this is a real chance for foreigners to take the first step towards life and career in Spain.

Not sure if you qualify for this visa? Visit World lawyers will help you with a full analysis, paperwork and support at all stages: from checking eligibility to obtaining a work permit.

Contact us today - and take the first step towards working in Spain!

Reminder! Important changes to Spanish migration law will come into effect in May 2025. Visa facilitation, work, family reunification and a “second life” for migrants. We have already told you what changes expats in Spain can expect.

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