Are you planning to work in Spain or hire international talent? Understanding the different types of spain work permit is essential to avoid delays, comply with legal requirements and ensure a smooth relocation process. In this guide, we explain the main types of work permits available in Spain, who they apply to, and how Adlanter can help you manage the process from start to finish.

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How to Obtain a Work Permit in Spain

A work permit is an authorization granted to foreigners who intend to start a professional or employment relationship in Spain. To obtain one, applicants must meet certain requirements, which vary depending on the type of permit requested.

Legal Framework for Work Permits in Spain

Spain’s immigration system is governed by three main legal instruments:

Immigration Act (2000)

Regulates migratory flows and prioritizes employment opportunities for Spanish nationals.

Immigration Regulation (2024)

Effective from May 20, 2025, this new regulation streamlines administrative procedures and introduces digital processing for foreign nationals.

Entrepreneurs Act (2013)

Designed to attract foreign investment and talent through flexible migration policies.
These laws define the scenarios in which a foreign national may apply for a work permit in Spain, whether as an entrepreneur, a locally hired employee, or a posted worker.

Who Needs a Spain Work Permit?

The first step is to determine whether the applicant is an EU national or a third-country national.

EU Nationals

Citizens of EU Member States, Switzerland, or EEA countries (and their family members) can work in Spain without a standard work permit. They only need to register as EU residents and obtain the EU Registration Certificate.

Non-EU Nationals

Foreign nationals from outside the EU must apply for a specific work permit depending on their situation:
  • Starting a business or working as a freelancer
  • Being hired by a Spanish company
  • Being temporarily posted to Spain by a foreign employer

Types of Spain Work Permit

Spain offers several types of work permits based on the applicant’s professional profile, contract type, and intended duration of stay.

 

Find out which permit to apply for

Work Permits for Entrepreneurs, Startups, and Researchers

Spanish law provides three main types of work permits for entrepreneurs intending to carry out professional activities in Spain.

Residence Authorization for Entrepreneurs

This permit is designed for foreigners intending to launch an entrepreneurial or innovative project that benefits the Spanish economy.

  • Valid for 3 years, renewable for 2 additional years.

  • Offers an expedited and digital application process.

  • Includes a maximum 20-business-day resolution timeframe.

Residence Authorization for Researchers

This permit applies to foreign nationals engaged in scientific research or teaching, such as university professors, or specialized technical staff.

  • Can be requested either by the research institution or by the researcher.

  • Allows mobility within the EU and parallel processing of family residence permits.

Residence and Work Authorization for Self-Employed Individuals

Intended for foreigners pursuing economic activities as freelancers or self-employed professionals.

  • Valid for over 90 days and up to 5 years.

  • Initial authorization lasts 1 year.

  • May be limited to a specific Autonomous Community and professional sector.

Work Permits for Employees Hired in Spain or Abroad

Key Question: Where is the employment contract based?

If the employment contract remains in the home country, options such as Intra-Company Transfers (ICT) or the Van der Elst visa (for intra-EU postings) may apply.

If the employee is hired directly by a Spanish company, the following options are commonly used:

Let’s explore these three types, which are the most widely used:

Work Permit for Foreigners in Spain

Residence Authorization for Highly Qualified Professionals

This permit targets executive or highly skilled positions, typically where candidates hold a higher education degree or equivalent professional experience relevant to the job offered.

Minimum salary thresholds apply:

  • €40,000 for technical profiles

  • €54,500 for executives

  • €30,000 for applicants under 30 or in strategic projects

For more details, read our guide of the Highly Qualified Professional Permit.

Residence Authorization for Internships

The Residence Permit for Internships may be granted via:

  • Training agreement; or

  • Internship employment contract

Though both routes share similar requirements, the key difference lies in the nature of the relationship—educational vs. employment-based.

It is increasingly popular for recruiting young foreign talent. The permit is valid for up to 2 years, and after the first year, it can be converted into a standard work permit.

Residence and Work Authorization for Employees

The Residence and Work Permit for Employees is applicable to any job, provided the national employment situation allows it (i.e., no suitable unemployed Spanish workers are available).

Although current labor market conditions make this permit less feasible, exceptions apply, such as:

  • Trusted staff

  • Skilled professionals

  • Nationals of Peru or Chile

  • Legal residents and their family members

This is not the fastest or most favorable option but remains viable when other permit conditions are not met.

Work Permit for Non-EU Family Members

EU Family Member Card

Non-EU family members of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can reside and work legally in Spain via the EU Family Member Card.

This card allows legal residence for more than three months and provides access to:

  • Employment opportunities

  • Public healthcare

  • Social benefits

Need Help?

This article is for informational purposes only and aims to guide those seeking to obtain a work permit in Spain.

At Adlanter, we handle the entire process for both employed and self-employed foreigners. If you’re looking for a company to assist with your work visa, we can help legalize your status in Spain.Contact us to learn more about our Work Permit Processing Service for Foreigners in Spain.

If you’re planning to work in Spain or hire international talent, choosing the right spain work permit is critical. Each case is unique, and the legal framework is constantly evolving.
At Adlanter, we simplify the process and ensure compliance. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a company, or a professional, we help you move forward with confidence.
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