EU, EEA, or Swiss Citizens
If you’re an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen, moving and working in Spain is a breeze for you. You can live, work and study in Madrid all without the hassle of applying for a visa. Just pack your bags, bring your passport and you’re ready to go!
Non-EU/EEA Citizens
For non-EU/EEA citizens, including UK nationals, the process is a little trickier, but don’t let that deter you. Here is what you need to know:
To apply for a visa, you will already need to have a job lined up and signed off. You will also need to have booked flights to prove your return and booked accommodation. Typically, the visa process takes 2-3 months, but in some cases, should your application bounce back, it can take up to eight months. So, make sure to plan your move well in advance.
There are various types of work permits for different types of jobs and lengths of employment. However, for a short stay summer job as a university student, you will be looking at the Work Employment Visa that is valid for up to one year.
To begin applying for this visa, as mentioned, you will need to have secured your job. Your employer must then submit an application for a work permit to the Spanish Ministry of Labour. Whilst this is being process, the Spanish Government will send you a copy of the application, stamped and signed. You can then send this to the Spanish embassy as part of your visa application.
Unfortunately, visas are not free and you will need to pay an established free that tends to be around €60-€80. When applying, you will need to head to your nearest Spanish embassy. Depending on where that is, you will also need to consider travel costs.
Please note, you cannot apply for a work visa if you are already in Spain.
For more information about the ins and outs of the visa process, visit: Expatica.
