Work Permits and Immigration in Spain

Bringing international talent to Spain requires navigating a complex immigration system with multiple permit categories. Whether you're relocating key executives, hiring specialized workers, or establishing an entrepreneurial presence, understanding the visa and work permit options is essential for compliance and efficient mobility.

Work Authorization Framework

Non-EU nationals generally require both a visa (for entry) and a work authorization (for employment). These are processed simultaneously through the Unidad de Grandes Empresas (UGE) for qualifying companies or standard immigration offices for others. EU/EEA citizens enjoy freedom of movement but must register for a certificate if residing more than three months.

Highly Qualified Professional Visa

The most common route for international professionals is the highly qualified worker authorization, requiring:

• A job offer from a Spanish company
• Salary above 150% of the average gross salary (or 120% for under-30s in shortage occupations)
• University degree or equivalent professional experience
• Clean criminal record and no immigration violations

Processing typically takes 20-45 days through the UGE fast-track, compared to several months through standard channels.

Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit

Multinational companies transferring employees to Spanish entities can use the ICT directive, which provides:

• Permits for managers, specialists, and trainee employees
• Maximum duration of 3 years (managers/specialists) or 1 year (trainees)
• Mobility within the EU for transfers to other member states
• Faster processing than standard work permits

The employee must have worked for the group for at least 3-12 months depending on category before transfer.

Entrepreneur and Investor Visas

Spain's startup law and investor residence programs offer pathways for business creators:

• Entrepreneur Visa: For innovative business projects endorsed by ENISA or meeting specific criteria
• Investor Residence: For significant capital investment (€500K+ in real estate, €1M+ in shares/bank deposits, €2M+ in government bonds)
• Startup Visa: Specific provisions for certified innovative startups with streamlined processes

The Application Process

Work authorization applications follow a general sequence:

1. Employer submits authorization request to Spanish immigration (or UGE)
2. Upon approval, employee applies for visa at Spanish consulate in country of residence
3. Employee enters Spain and obtains TIE (foreigner identity card) within 30 days
4. Employee registers for NIE (tax identification number) and Social Security

Total timeline ranges from 6 weeks (UGE fast-track) to 4+ months (standard processing).

Renewals and Permanent Residence

Initial work permits are typically granted for 1-2 years and must be renewed before expiration. After five years of continuous legal residence, non-EU nationals may apply for permanent residence, which removes work restrictions. Ten years of residence opens the path to Spanish citizenship (reduced to 2 years for Latin American nationals).

Compliance Considerations

Employers sponsoring foreign workers must ensure ongoing compliance:

• Employment conditions must match those specified in the work authorization
• Changes in role, salary, or employer require new authorization
• Social security registration and contributions must be current
• Document retention for immigration audits

Strategic Immigration Planning

Early planning is essential for international mobility. Our immigration team advises on permit selection, manages applications through the UGE where possible, and coordinates with HR departments to ensure smooth onboarding of international talent.