Residence Permits for Researchers in Spain: Differences Between EU and National Authorisations

Spain offers two specific types of residence authorisations for foreign researchers. These permits differ significantly in terms of eligibility requirements, granted rights, and European mobility scope. In this article, we explain—clearly and comparatively—what each type of authorisation entails so you can choose the most appropriate option for yourself or your institution.

What Do Both Authorisations Have in Common?

Both authorisations share the following characteristics:

• Initial duration: Up to 3 years, or the duration of the hosting agreement if shorter.

• Renewal: Renewable for an additional period of up to 2 years.

• Application scope: Valid across the entire Spanish territory.

• Access to permanent residence: Possible after 5 years of continuous legal residence.

• Family coverage: Both types allow joint residence applications for the spouse and minor children.

EU Research Residence Permit

The EU residence permit for researchers is designed for highly qualified professionals who meet specific academic requirements. It also facilitates mobility within the European Union under research programmes.

Specific Requirements

The applicant must hold either:

• A doctoral degree, or

• A higher education qualification giving access to doctoral programmes.

Required Documentation

A hosting agreement or employment contract must be submitted, containing:

• The title or objective of the research project.

• A commitment by the researcher to complete the research.

• A commitment by the host institution to accommodate the researcher.

• Start and end dates, or estimated duration of the project.

• Information on planned mobility in other EU Member States.

Key Advantages

• EU mobility: Allows entry, residence, and research activities in other EU countries.

• Family inclusion: Family members may accompany the researcher during their EU stay.

• Teaching activities: Authorises researchers to teach subjects related to their research without requiring a separate work permit.

National Research Residence Permit

The national residence permit for research is intended for foreign researchers who do not meet the academic criteria required under the EU model but are participating in relevant projects in Spain.

Specific Requirements

• No doctoral degree or eligibility for doctoral programmes is required.

• Suitable for technical profiles, early-stage PhD candidates, or research personnel without formal higher education qualifications.

Required Documentation

A standard hosting agreement or contract must be submitted. Unlike the EU model, there is no obligation to include EU mobility plans or specific formal commitments.

Limited Scope

• Restricted mobility: This authorisation does not permit working or residing in other EU Member States; it is valid solely within Spain.

• Additional activities: Teaching is not explicitly covered under this authorisation and may require further administrative procedures.

Which Authorisation is Right for You?

Choose the EU residence permit if:

• You hold a doctoral degree or a qualification granting access to one.

• You are involved in a research project that may involve EU mobility.

• You intend to combine research with teaching activities.

Opt for the national residence permit if:

• You lack a recognised higher academic degree.

• You are part of a technical or support research team.

• Your research project is limited to Spanish territory.

Need Help Choosing the Right Residence Option?

To accurately recommend the most suitable research residence permit in Spain, we need to understand your situation better:

• Do you plan to conduct research in other EU countries during your stay in Spain?

• Do you hold a PhD or a qualification that allows access to PhD programmes?

• Will you be combining research with teaching activities?

• Do you already have a defined research project with a host institution?

✅ With this information, we can offer a tailored analysis that fits your specific needs. Explore our immigration services and let us help you choose the best option to boost your research career in Spain and across Europe.