Valencia

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Work Permits and Visas

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Comprehensive Guide to Work Permits and Visas in Valencia, Spain

If you’re planning to work in Valencia, Spain, as a foreigner, understanding the work permit and visa process is essential. Spain has specific legal requirements for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals, while EU/EEA/Swiss citizens enjoy more streamlined processes. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the system.

1. Types of Work Permits and Visas in Spain

A. For Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals require a work visa and permit to legally work in Spain. The main types of work permits include:

  1. Work and Residence Visa (Visado de Trabajo y Residencia)

    • For individuals who have secured a job offer in Spain.
    • Requires employer sponsorship.

  2. Highly Skilled Professional Visa (Tarjeta Azul UE or Blue Card)

    • For highly qualified professionals in fields like IT, engineering, medicine, or academia.
    • Requires a job offer with a salary threshold (usually higher than the average wage).

  3. Seasonal Work Visa

    • For temporary or seasonal jobs, such as in agriculture or tourism.
    • Valid for up to 9 months.

  4. Self-Employment Visa (Visado de Trabajo por Cuenta Propia)

    • For entrepreneurs, freelancers, or self-employed individuals.
    • Requires a detailed business plan and proof of financial resources.

  5. Intra-Company Transfer Visa

    • For employees transferred to a Spanish branch of their company.

  6. Au Pair Visa

    • For young people working as au pairs while living with a host family.

B. For EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals

  • EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need a work visa or permit to work in Spain. However, they must register with local authorities and obtain a Foreigner’s Identity Number (NIE) and Social Security Number.

2. Eligibility Criteria

General Requirements for Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals

  • A valid job offer from a Spanish employer.
  • The job must be listed as a shortage occupation or prove that no suitable local candidate is available.
  • Meet qualifications or experience requirements for the job.
  • No criminal record in Spain or your home country.
  • Proof of financial means to support yourself (if applying for self-employment).

3. Application Procedures

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer

  • For most work visas, you must have a job offer from a Spanish employer. The employer must initiate the work permit application on your behalf.

Step 2: Employer Applies for Work Authorization

  • The employer submits the application to the Delegación de Gobierno (Government Delegation) in Valencia or the region where the job is located.
  • Processing time: 1-3 months.

Step 3: Apply for a Work Visa

  • Once the work authorization is approved, you must apply for a work visa at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country.
  • Required documents:
    • Completed visa application form.
    • Passport (valid for at least 6 months).
    • Two passport-sized photos.
    • Copy of the work authorization.
    • Job contract.
    • Proof of qualifications (e.g., degrees, certifications).
    • Medical certificate.
    • Criminal record certificate.
    • Visa fee payment receipt.

Step 4: Enter Spain and Register

  • Upon arrival in Valencia, you must:
    1. Register with the local Social Security Office to obtain a Social Security Number.
    2. Apply for a Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE) at the local Extranjería Office (Immigration Office) within 30 days of arrival.

4. Required Documents

  • Valid passport.
  • Job offer or employment contract.
  • Work authorization approval.
  • Proof of qualifications (translated into Spanish, if necessary).
  • Criminal record certificate (apostilled and translated).
  • Medical certificate.
  • Proof of financial means (for self-employment).
  • Visa application form and fee payment receipt.

5. Associated Costs

  • Work Visa Application Fee: €60-€80 (varies by country of application).
  • TIE Card Fee: Approximately €15-€20.
  • Translations and Apostilles: Costs vary depending on the number of documents.
  • Medical Certificate: €50-€100 (depending on the provider).

6. Processing Times

  • Work Authorization: 1-3 months.
  • Work Visa: 1-2 months (depending on the consulate).
  • TIE Card: Issued within 30 days of application.

7. Local Offices in Valencia

Key Offices for Work Permits and Visas

  1. Extranjería Office (Immigration Office)

    • Address: Calle Bailén, 9, 46007 Valencia.
    • Services: TIE applications, NIE issuance, and general immigration inquiries.

  2. Social Security Office

    • Address: Calle de la Reina, 85, 46011 Valencia.
    • Services: Social Security Number registration.

  3. Delegación de Gobierno

    • Address: Plaza del Temple, 1, 46003 Valencia.
    • Services: Work authorization applications (via employer).

  4. Valencia City Hall (Ayuntamiento de Valencia)

    • Address: Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1, 46002 Valencia.
    • Services: General administrative support.

8. Cultural and Practical Tips for Working in Valencia

  1. Language Skills

    • Spanish is the primary language, and Valencian (a regional language) is also widely spoken. Learning basic Spanish will significantly improve your job prospects and integration.

  2. Work Culture

    • Spanish work culture values personal relationships, so networking is crucial.
    • Expect a relaxed approach to time, with long lunch breaks and a focus on work-life balance.

  3. Job Market

    • Key industries in Valencia include tourism, agriculture, technology, and education.
    • Seasonal jobs are common in tourism and hospitality.

  4. Networking

    • Join local expat groups or professional associations to expand your network.
    • Platforms like LinkedIn and local job boards (e.g., InfoJobs, Indeed Spain) are useful for job hunting.

  5. Cost of Living

    • Valencia is more affordable than Madrid or Barcelona, but salaries may also be lower.
    • Average monthly rent: €600-€900 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.

  6. Public Services

    • Valencia has excellent public transportation, including buses, trams, and a metro system.
    • Healthcare is high-quality and free for residents with a Social Security Number.

9. Additional Resources

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the work permit and visa process in Valencia, Spain. Remember to start early, as processing times can vary, and ensure all your documents are complete and accurate. Good luck!