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Comprehensive Guide to Work Permits and Visas in Madrid, Spain

If you are planning to work in Madrid, Spain, as a foreign national, you will likely need a work visa and/or work permit. Spain has specific requirements and procedures for obtaining these documents, which vary depending on your nationality, the type of work you intend to do, and the duration of your stay. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the process.

1. Types of Work Permits and Visas in Spain

A. For Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals

If you are not a citizen of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you will need a work visa and permit to legally work in Madrid. The main types of work permits and visas include:

  1. Work Visa for Employment (Visado de Trabajo por Cuenta Ajena)

    • For individuals who have a job offer from a Spanish employer.
    • The employer must sponsor your application and prove that no EU/EEA/Swiss citizen can fill the position.

  2. Work Visa for Self-Employment (Visado de Trabajo por Cuenta Propia)

    • For individuals planning to work as freelancers or start their own business in Spain.
    • Requires a detailed business plan and proof of financial resources.

  3. EU Blue Card

    • For highly skilled workers with a university degree or equivalent professional experience.
    • Requires a job offer with a salary threshold (usually higher than the average salary in Spain).

  4. Seasonal Work Visa

    • For temporary or seasonal work, such as in agriculture or tourism.
    • Limited to a specific period and employer.

  5. Intra-Company Transfer Visa

    • For employees of multinational companies transferring to a branch or subsidiary in Spain.

  6. Au Pair Visa

    • For young people (typically aged 18–30) working as au pairs in exchange for room, board, and a stipend.

B. For EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals

  • Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland do not need a work visa or permit to work in Madrid. However, if staying for more than 90 days, they must register with local authorities and obtain a Foreigner Identity Number (NIE) and a Certificate of Registration (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión).

2. Eligibility Requirements

General Requirements for Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals

  • A valid job offer or business plan (depending on the visa type).
  • Proof of qualifications or experience relevant to the job.
  • No criminal record in Spain or your home country.
  • Proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay.
  • Health insurance coverage in Spain.

Specific Requirements

  • Work Visa for Employment: The employer must obtain authorization from the Spanish Ministry of Labor and Social Economy.
  • Work Visa for Self-Employment: A viable business plan, proof of investment, and any required licenses or permits.
  • EU Blue Card: A university degree or equivalent, and a job offer with a salary at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Spain.

3. Application Procedures

Step 1: Obtain a Job Offer or Prepare a Business Plan

  • For employment visas, you must secure a job offer from a Spanish employer.
  • For self-employment visas, prepare a detailed business plan and gather evidence of financial resources.

Step 2: Employer Applies for Work Authorization

  • Your employer must apply for a work authorization (Autorización de Trabajo) on your behalf at the Spanish Ministry of Labor.
  • This step is not required for self-employment visas.

Step 3: Apply for a Work Visa

  • Once the work authorization is approved, you can apply for a work visa at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country.
  • Submit the required documents (see below).

Step 4: Enter Spain and Register

  • Upon arrival in Madrid, you must:
    1. Register with the local Social Security Office (Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social).
    2. Apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) at the local Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería).

4. Required Documentation

For Work Visa Application

  • Completed visa application form.
  • Valid passport (with at least six months of validity).
  • Two recent passport-sized photos.
  • Proof of work authorization (provided by your employer).
  • Job contract or business plan (depending on visa type).
  • Proof of qualifications (e.g., diplomas, certificates).
  • Criminal record certificate (translated into Spanish and apostilled).
  • Medical certificate stating you are free of contagious diseases.
  • Proof of financial resources (for self-employment visas).
  • Proof of health insurance coverage.

For TIE Application

  • Completed TIE application form (EX-17).
  • Passport and visa.
  • Proof of address in Madrid (e.g., rental contract, utility bill).
  • Social Security registration number.
  • Payment of the TIE application fee.

5. Associated Costs

  • Work Visa Application Fee: €60–€80 (varies by country of application).
  • TIE Application Fee: Approximately €15–€20.
  • Criminal Record Certificate Translation and Apostille: Costs vary depending on your home country.
  • Health Insurance: Costs depend on the provider and coverage.

6. Processing Times

  • Work Authorization: 1–3 months.
  • Work Visa: 1–2 months after work authorization is approved.
  • TIE: Issued within 30 days of application.

7. Specific Considerations for Madrid

  • Madrid is a major hub for international businesses, so there is a high demand for skilled workers, especially in sectors like technology, finance, and education.
  • The cost of living in Madrid is higher than in other Spanish cities, so ensure your salary or financial resources are sufficient to cover housing, transportation, and other expenses.
  • Spanish language skills are often required for most jobs, though some multinational companies may operate in English.

8. Where to Apply

Work Authorization

  • Spanish Ministry of Labor and Social Economy (Ministerio de Trabajo y Economía Social)

Work Visa

TIE and Social Security

  • Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería)
    • Address: Calle Manuel Luna, 29, 28020 Madrid
    • Website: www.madrid.org
  • Social Security Office (Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social)

9. Local Resources and Assistance

  • Madrid Expat Services: Offers guidance for expats on legal and administrative matters.
  • Chambers of Commerce (Cámara de Comercio de Madrid): Provides support for entrepreneurs and businesses.
  • Legal and Immigration Consultants: Many law firms in Madrid specialize in immigration and work permits.

By following this guide, you should have a clear understanding of the steps and requirements for obtaining a work permit and visa in Madrid. If you need further assistance, consider consulting with a legal expert or immigration advisor.