The Work Permit of Spain

If you are not a national of an EU country, you will need a work permit to carry out any remunerated activity in Spain.
There are several types of permits depending on whether you will work as an employee, self-employed worker, or entrepreneur.
Below are the most important ones:

🏅 Types of Work Permits

🎓 Work Permit for Highly Skilled Professionals

For individuals with university or postgraduate qualifications who have a job offer related to their field.

Key points:

📄 Job must match your qualifications and experience
💼 Detailed job description showing your role in the company
💶 Minimum salary typically €42,000/year (can be lower if you’re under 30)

🧑‍🔧 Self-Employment Work Permit

Ideal if you want to start your own business in Spain (non-innovative businesses allowed).

Requirements:

💰 Show the business is profitable and sustainable
📝 Provide a business plan and proof of financial means

🚀 Work Permit for Entrepreneurs

For people who plan to launch an innovative project with economic or social impact.

You must show:

🧠 Innovation in your business idea
📈 Benefits to the Spanish economy (e.g., job creation, tech improvement)

📝 Application Process (General Steps)

📚 Collect required documents:
- Passport
- Employment contract (if employed)
- Business plan (if self-employed)
- Criminal record certificate
🌍 Apply from your home country or, in some cases, from within Spain if you are already there legally
⏳ Approval usually takes about 3 months, depending on the permit type and your situation