If you are not a Spanish citizen and wish to work in Spain, you may be wondering how to obtain the appropriate work permit. In this section, we explain the different types of work permits available, the requirements you must meet, and how we can assist you with your application. If you are not a citizen of an EU country, you will need a work permit to perform any paid activity in Spain. There are different types of permits depending on your professional situation, whether you plan to work as an employee, a self-employed worker, or an entrepreneur. Below, we explain the main work permits available. 
Work Permit for Employment (Cuenta Ajena)
This type of permit is for those who plan to work for a Spanish company under an employment contract. To apply, you need to have a valid job offer, and the employer must handle the application process on your behalf. This permit is available to: 
  • Non-EU citizens who have a job offer in Spain. 
  • Graduates who have completed their studies in Spain (degree or equivalent). 
  • Citizens of Chile and Peru, who have preferential conditions under bilateral agreements. 
Work Permit for Self-Employment (Cuenta Propia)
If you wish to start your own business in Spain, this is the appropriate permit. This type of permit is aimed at those who can demonstrate that their business is viable and profitable. Unlike the entrepreneur visa, the business does not need to be innovative. To apply, you must meet the following conditions: 
  • Submit a detailed business plan that shows the feasibility of the project. 
  • Demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to sustain the business. 
  • Provide evidence of your professional qualifications related to the business you plan to develop . 
Work Permit for Highly Qualified Professionals
This permit is designed for professionals with university or postgraduate degrees and a job offer related to their qualifications. To qualify, you must meet a minimum salary requirement (usually €42,000 per year). If you are under 30 years old, the required salary can be lower. The main requirements for this permit are:
  • A job offer that matches your qualifications and experience.
  • A detailed job description showing your role in the company .
The process to apply for a work permit varies depending on the type of permit you need. However, the general steps include:
  1. Gathering the required documents, such as your passport, employment contract (for employees), or business plan (for self-employed applicants), as well as a criminal record certificate.
  1. Submitting the application: Applications can be submitted either from your country of origin or, in some cases, from within Spain if you are already here legally.
  1. Waiting for the resolution: The approval process usually takes around three months, depending on the type of permit and your specific situation.
To apply for any type of work permit in Spain, you must meet the following general requirements:
  • Not be a citizen of the European Union.
  • Have no criminal record in Spain or in the countries where you have resided during the last five years.
  • Not be in an irregular situation in Spain.
  • Have a valid employment contract or the necessary resources to work as a self-employed person.
  • Comply with Spanish labor and tax regulations.
Note: Copies of the documents must be provided and the originals must be shown at the time of the application • Official application form (EX–03) in duplicate, duly completed and signed by the hiring company. http://extranjeros.empleo.gob.es/es/ModelosSolicitudes/Mod_solicitudes2/

Documentation to be provided by the worker:

  • Complete copy of the passport or valid travel document.
  • Copy of the documentation that accredits the required training and, where appropriate, the professional qualification for the exercise of the profession.

Documentation to be provided by the company, except for domestic service:

  • Documentation identifying the company requesting the authorization:
  • If it is an individual entrepreneur: copy of the NIF or NIE, or consent to verify identity data through the Identity and Residence Data Verification System.
  • If it is a legal entity (S.A., S.L., Cooperative, etc.):
    • Copy of the company’s NIF and copy of the incorporation deed duly registered in the corresponding Registry.
    • Copy of the public document that proves that the signer of the authorization request holds the legal representation of the company.
    • Copy of the NIF or NIE or consent to verify identity data through the Identity and Residence Data Verification System of the signer of the application.
  • Signed employment contract. Original and copy must be presented. The copy will be stamped by the Foreigners’ Office and returned for subsequent presentation by the foreigner along with the application for a residence and work visa.
  • Documentary evidence of the occurrence of a case of non-consideration of the national employment situation. (See information sheet No. 107 with the cases and the necessary documentation).
  • Accreditation that the company can guarantee the necessary solvency, through: copy of the IRPF (Personal Income Tax) declaration, or VAT, or Corporate Tax, or the company’s work life report (VILE), referring to the last three years. Also, a descriptive report of the occupation to be performed must be provided.

Documentation of the employer if the activity is domestic service:

  • Copy of the NIF or NIE of the employer or consent to verify identity data through the Identity and Residence Data Verification System.
  • Signed employment contract. Original and copy must be presented. The copy will be stamped by the Foreigners’ Office and returned for subsequent presentation by the foreigner along with the application for a residence and work visa.
  • Documentary evidence of non-consideration of the national employment situation. (See the information sheet referring to the cases and the necessary documentation).
  • Copy of the last IRPF declaration or income certification issued by the Tax Administration or other documentation that proves sufficient solvency for hiring.
  Important note: When documents from other countries are provided, they must be translated into Spanish or the co-official language of the territory where the application is submitted. On the other hand, any foreign public document must be previously legalized by the Spanish Consular Office with jurisdiction in the country where said document has been issued and by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, except in the case that said document has been apostilled by the competent Authority of the issuing country according to the Hague Convention of October 5, 1961, and except that said document is exempt from legalization by virtue of an International Agreement.
for more information contact us via email to admin@maxprogroup.eu