Working in Spain as an international student is a great way to gain experience and earn an extra income while studying.
Whether you’re looking for a part-time job during your studies, or even staying to work in Spain after graduation, it’s important to know the rules around student visas, how many hours you’re allowed to work and the language skills you need.
Quick Summary
- Spain offers several opportunities for work to international students.
- Spain allows its students to work on a student visa up to 30 hours per week.
- After graduation, Spain allows you to apply for a post-study work visa.
- You get one year after completing your degree to find a job or start your own business in Spain.
- Spain has a diverse job market offering opportunities for employment in numerous sectors, more specifically in tourism, hospitality and technology.
- To have better job prospects, it is important to be fluent in English (Being fluent in Spanish is another big plus).
- Sectors experiencing skills shortages in Spain include information and communication technologies, renewable energies, healthcare.
- Job sectors that are performing well in Spain include agriculture, finance and banking, energy, construction, tourism, pharmaceuticals and textiles.
- Jobs that are most in-demand in Spain include computer engineers, data analysts, engineers with expertise in renewable energy, bricklayers.
- There are plenty of summer jobs in Spain for international students.
- As an international student working part-time in Spain, you can earn from €300 to €800 per month.
- The average salary for someone working full-time in Spain is €26,948.
- Spain has strong laws and regulations that protect both local and international workers.
Can I Work in Spain On a Student Visa?
Yes, you can work in Spain on a student visa and earn an extra income while studying. However, some restrictions might apply. Legally, you can work in Spain through the following options:
- Through the student visa itself. This visa allows you to find work as long as your course of study is officially recognized by the Spanish government.
- Through curricular or extracurricular job placements. There are plenty of universities in Spain that offer students paid internship opportunities.
Note that if your student residency card has been issued after August 16, 2022, you can work up to 30 hours per week. However, an important thing to keep in mind is that your job should not become the main source of income.
What Are the Requirements to Work in Spain on a Student Visa?
When looking for job opportunities in Spain it is important to consider the specific requirements to work on a student visa. There are some differences in terms of work requirements between an EU/EEA student and a non-EU/EEA student.
Here are the requirements to work in Spain on a Student Visa:
| Students | Requirements |
| EU/EEA Students |
|
| Non-EU/EEA Students |
|
Is It Easy to Find a Job as an International Student in Spain?
Yes, finding a job as an international student in Spain should not be harder than being a local. Your only setback can be the language barrier. If you are not fluent in Spanish you might face difficulties in securing a job. However, you should make sure you are at least fluent in English as there are many jobs in Spain that hire English speakers.
If you have time and think you can manage, our guide on how to learn Spanish quickly can come in handy. Check it out.
How Can I Work in Spain as an EU Student?
Working in Spain as an EU student is quite an easy process. All you need to do is:
- Find a job.
- Get an NIE (Foreign Identity Number) which allows you to open a bank account in Spain and pay taxes.
- Register with the Spanish Social Security system.
- Comply with working hours (up to 30 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during academic breaks).
How Can I Work in Spain as a Non-EU Student?
Working in Spain as a non-EU student is more or less the same as working as a US citizen. Here’s an overview:
You first need to find a job with a company operating in Spain. Then, your employer applies for a work permit or Autorizacion de Trabajo on your behalf. Once the work permit has been approved you should apply for a visa.
If your visa is approved, you can legally work in Spain. But, make sure you comply with the working hours (up to 30 hours per week).
Can I Work in Spain After Graduating?
Yes, you can work in Spain after you graduate. But, the process is not quite simple. Once you complete your studies, you will have to apply for a post-study work visa. This visa gives you a year to find a job or start your business.
Here is a list of the documents you need in order to apply for a post-study work visa:
- .
- Valid passport (unexpired)
- Photograph
- Copy of the Initial Authorization for Temporary Residence and Work Permit (Autorización de Residencia y Trabajo por Cuenta Ajena)
- A copy of the work contract stamped by the Foreign National’s Office.
- A copy of the criminal record check certificate issued by your country of residence for the past 5 years.
- Medical certificate.
- Payment of the visa fee.
Remember to apply for an extension of your residence permit at least 60 days before your student visa expires. You can apply at the Spanish Immigration Office or Oficina de Extranjeria.
What Kind of Visa Can I Get After Graduating in Spain?
After graduating with either an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in Spain, you can apply for a work visa. There are 5 types of work visas in Spain:
-
- Long-term Work Visa. This visa will be valid for a year and you can renew it indefinitely as long as you meet the requirements.
- Seasonal Work Visa. Work in Spain for a fixed period, most likely only a couple of months.
- . The EU Blue Card gives you the right to live and work in Spain as long as you have a degree and an employment contract for at least one year.
- Self-employed and Freelance Work Visa. If you want to independently work in Spain, this is the right visa for you.
- Au Pair Visa. You can apply for an Au Pair Visa if the job you have found includes helping a family with the housework and childcare. This visa is valid for one year, but can be extended to two years max.
How to Get a Work Visa in Spain?
To get a work visa in Spain you must:
- Secure a job offer
- Have your employer apply for a work permit (Autorizacion de Trabajo)
- Apply for a work visa
- Pay any visa fees and wait for your visa to be processed.
How to Find a Job in Spain?
When looking for a job, the first thing you do is research the market and identify which industries are looking for someone with your skillset. Secondly, you check whether there are any restrictions in your target job position (I.e., visa and work permit requirements).
Once you do that, you prepare your CV. Spanish CVs follow the reverse chronological, so make sure you list everything from your most recent activity to the last.
How Can I Work in Spain as a US Citizen?
To work in Spain as a US Citizen, you’ll need the following:
- Get a job offer from a Spanish employer.
- Have your employer apply for a work permit for you.
- If approved, apply for a work visa (you apply for the work visa by yourself).
- Prepare your documents. Work Visa application requirements typically include your passport, qualifications, job contract, and a clean criminal record (Make sure you translate all official documents to Spanish).
- Once your visa is approved you register and obtain a , and apply for a .
Once you complete the steps above, you can legally work in Spain as a US citizen.
How to Apply for a Job in Spain?
Applying for a job as an international student in Spain is practically the same as in any other country. If you have already found a job that matches your career aspirations, these are the steps you should follow to apply for a job in Spain:
- Make sure you have read the job description carefully, so you don’t miss important information.
- Prepare your CV, tailor it to the job description and apply through their application portal.
- If you receive a positive response, start preparing for your interview!
Before you land your dream job, make sure you go through the list of most expensive and cheapest cities to live in Spain for international students.
Can I Get a Job in Spain Without Speaking Spanish?
Working in Spain without being fluent in Spanish is quite doable. But, if you want to get hired in Spain without speaking Spanish, you should be at least a level B1 or B2 in English. This is what many jobs will require at least.
Here are a few steps you can take to find a job as a non-Spanish speaker in Spain:
- Look for job positions that require your native language (I.e French, German, Mandarin, or other).
- Look for companies that hire foreigners (there are plenty in Spain, see below).
- Check out different job sites (Infojobs, LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, Infoempleo, or similar).
- Check online for English-speaking jobs near your location.
So, if you’ve caught yourself asking the question “Do I have to speak Spanish to work in Spain?”, know that the answer is yes.
Nevertheless, when studying or living in a foreign country it is more than recommended that you know some basic words of the native language to get by. If you agree with this recommendation, we have a guide on Spanish words and phrases to know that might help you.
Are There Jobs in Spain for English Speakers?
Yes, there are plenty of jobs in Spain you can take as an English speaker. And, not just any job. There are plenty of people who have built successful careers in Spain, eventhough they were not fluent in Spanish. Remember that not being fluent does not mean you should disregard learning the language at all. Make sure you know at least some basic words to get by.
Here are a few tips when looking for a job as an English speaker in Spain:
- Target companies looking for English speakers.
- Do your research and find the best places to work in Spain, and then reach out to the companies.
- Make good use of job search sites (LinkedIn, Glassdoor).
- Connect with HR Executives on LinkedIn.
What Are Some International Companies Hiring in Spain?
Some of the most prominent international companies hiring foreigners in Spain include the following:
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Electronic Arts
- IBM
- CISCO Systems
- Oracle
- Hewlett Packard (HP)
- Fujitsu
What Are the Top Companies Hiring Foreigners in Spain?
Spain is home to numerous successful companies that hire both local and international individuals.
Here is a list of top companies hiring foreigners in Spain:
- Keysight Technologies
- LIDL
- Alcampo
- AstraZeneca
- Abbot
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- Airbus
- Experian
- Admiral
- Uriach
- SAP
- Delsol
- Enagas
- Applus
- Otis
- Experian
- Artiem
- Toyota
- Pfizer
- Puma
- Amazon
- Acciona
Which Sectors Are Experiencing Skills Shortage in Spain?
Some of the sectors experiencing skills shortages in Spain include the following:
- Information and Communication Technologies
- Renewable Energies
- Healthcare
- Hospitality
- Construction
- Fishing
- Metal Repair
Which Job Sectors Are Performing Well in Spain?
Some job sectors that are performing well in Spain include the following:
- Agriculture
- Finance and Banking
- Energy
- Construction
- Pharmaceuticals
- Textiles
- Tourism
What Jobs Are Most In-Demand in Spain?
Jobs that are most in-demand in Spain include the following:
- Big Data and Security IT Technicians
- Bricklayers
- Computer Engineers
- Carpenters
- Cooks
- Data Analysts
- Engineers with Expertise in Renewable Energy
- Experts in Business Intelligence and Data Mining
- Forklift Drivers
- Healthcare Assistants
- Nurses
- Truck Drivers
- Technical Specialists in Healthcare
Are There Summer Jobs in Spain?
Yes, there are plenty of summer jobs in Spain for international students. Similar to many working opportunities abroad, the most common choice is working in hospitality roles. But, these are not the only summer jobs you can take.
Here is a list of summer jobs you can work in Spain:
- Bartender
- Waitstaff
- Club Promoter
- Lifeguard
- Dog Walker
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- Holiday Rep
- Entertainer
- Cleaning Work
- Online Tutor
- Amusement Park
The most popular places for summer jobs in Spain include:
- Ibiza
- Magaluf
- Tenerife
- Mallorca
- Gran Canarina
- Menorca
If you’re more interested in a summer educational experience rather than a summer job, here is a list of top summer study abroad programs in Spain.
What is the Average Salary in Spain?
According to , or Spanish Statistical Office, the total average salary in Spain is €26,948 per year. However, there are regions in Spain that pay better than others.
Some of the factors that contribute to the high salaries in these regions include the cost of living, local industries, and national productivity levels within each area.
See below for the list of top highest paying regions in Spain.
Average Annual Salary in the Top Highest Paying Regions in Spain:
| Region | Average Annual Salary |
| Basque Country | €32,313 |
| Community of Madrid | €31,230 |
| Community of Navarre | €29,189 |
| Catalonia | €28,744 |
| Ceuta and Melilla | €27,370 |
| Balearic Islands | €27,145 |
How Much Can International Students Earn Working Part-Time in Spain?
In Spain, how much you earn working part-time mainly depends on your job and its location. On average, an international student working part-time in Spain earns from €300 to €800 per month.
This amounts to an hourly pay of €8 to €10 (the minimum wage per hour in Spain is €8.87).
In terms of hours, according to the new law in Spain, you can work up to 30 hours per week during the academic year. During academic breaks, you can work full-time.
Since the type of field you choose to work in plays a huge role in your monthly salary, here is a list of fields that pay well in Spain:
- Engineering
- Healthcare
- IT
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- Law
- Renewable Energy
- Aviation and Aerospace
- Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology
Does Spain Offer Opportunities for Self-Employed Work?
Yes, you have plenty of opportunities for self-employed work in Spain. Self-employed people in Spain are referred to as Autonomos.
As an Autonomo in Spain, you will have to register as a freelancer, self-employed worker, or small business owner. If you register as an Autonomo you have to consider the following:
- Tax Payment. As a self-employed worker in Spain, you will have to pay the combined employee and employer amount. This means that you must pay a quarterly income tax and handle your VAT if applicable.
- Social Security Contributions. As a new Autonomo in Spain, you will have to make monthly payments starting at €80.
Note that if you decide to become a business owner, business related expenses can be deducted.
What’s It Like to Work in Spain?
Spaniards are known for their welcoming nature, so working in Spain will be quite an interesting experience. Many foreigners who decided to stay and work in Spain admitted that there were things about their workplace in Spain that they did find appreciative.
Here are some things that might surprise you about working in Spain:
- Kindness. If you are new at a workplace, there is a high chance that your colleagues will invite you to eat with them, so you will not be left eating alone.
- Good Work-Life Balance. Spain is known for placing a huge importance on a healthy balance between work and personal life. As an employee in the country, you will enjoy the long lunch breaks during a work day.
- Generous Annual Leave. Spaniards enjoy the generous vacation time offered by their employers. If you choose to work in the country, you will get a minimum of 30 paid working days of vacation per year. On top of that, Spain has 14 public holidays so you get to enjoy these days off as well.
- Supportive Work Environment. While working in Spain you will see that family, friends, and leisure activities are a priority. Unlike in many other countries where punctuality is emphasized, Spain embraces a more relaxed approach to work start. So, don’t be surprised by those late starting times.
Is Spain a Good Country to Work In?
Spain can be a great place to pursue higher education but in terms of working there are some factors you might want to consider before deciding to remain in the country. For instance, Spain has had quite a high unemployment rate.
However, in the second quarter of 2024, it dropped by 1.02% to 11.27%. Still, there are many other factors that make Spain irresistible to live in, starting from the pleasant, warm and welcoming culture to its rich history and the most stunning scenery.
What Are the Employees’ Rights in Spain?
The Spanish Government implements labor laws that ensure each employee is treated and protected fairly. It is important to note that Spanish laws offer strong protection for both local and international workers alike.
Here are some key employee rights governed by labor laws in Spain:
- Employment Contracts. Each employee in Spain must have a written contract outlining their terms of employment.
- Working Hours. Spain has a standard working week of 40 hours. While the maximum number of working hours per week is 48.
- Minimum Wage. The minimum wage per month in Spain increased steadily over the last few years. Currently, in 2024, the minimum wage per month in Spain is €1,134.
- Paid Leave. All employees in Spain, including part-time workers, interns, trainees and apprentices are entitled to 30 calendar days of paid vacation per year.
- Sick Leave. Spain provides paid sick leave to each employee. This includes the first 15 days of sick leave. After that, Social Security takes over, paying a percentage of your salary.
- Parental Leave. In Spain maternity and paternity leave lasts 16 weeks — which is fully paid by Social Security. Parental leave can be extended under certain conditions.
- Job Security. Employees in Spain have strong job protections. Each dismissal must be justified — offering workers severance pay or compensation for unfair terminations.
- Discrimination Protection. Spanish law prohibits discrimination and harassment at the workplace — with the Spanish Constitution stating that all people are equal before the law.
- Health and Safety. All employers in Spain are obliged to ensure a safe working environment, adhering to occupational health and safety regulations.
