Work Options for Foreigners in Spain with Study Visa

Spain is one of the most sought-after destinations for international students in Europe. Each year, thousands of foreign students choose Spain to pursue higher education at universities and training centers renowned for their academic quality. Recent data indicates that over 200.000 international students enroll in higher education programs in the country, attracted by its cultural diversity, lifestyle, and the opportunity to learn Spanish, one of the most widely spoken languages globally.

For many of these students, Spain represents not only an academic opportunity but also a chance to enter the European labor market. A student visa provides a path to temporary employment, allowing students to gain professional experience while continuing their studies. Upon completing their studies, a substantial number of students choose to remain in Spain, utilizing employment search permits or the option to transition to a work visa. This makes Spain an ideal destinations for those seeking to establish a professional career in a competitive, multicultural European environment. 

Is it possible to work in Spain with a student visa? 

Spanish Immigration Law allows foreign students holding a student visa to work under certain limitations. According to Article 42 of Organic Law 4/2000 and the Immigration Regulation, employment is permitted up to a maximum of 30 hours per week and must be compatible with academic activities. This authorization is not intended as a pathway to permanent residency and employment, as its primary goal is to complement the student`s academic experience without interfering with their studies.

What type of jobs can foreign students perform? 

Foreign students may engage in certain types of employment, provided these roles do not interfere with their academic training. Permitted types of work include: 

• Professional internships: Related to the student`s field of study, these internships allow students to apply their knowledge in a work context, enriching their academic experience.
• Part-time jobs: While these jobs may be in sectors unrelated to the student`s field of study, they must adhere to the legal hourly limits. 
• Self-employment (freelancing): Students may pursue self-employed work, provided they obtain additional authorization and ensure that the work does not impact their studies.

Is it possible to work full-time during academic break?

The regulations allow students to work full-time during academic vacation periods, such as summer or Christmas breaks. Outside of these periods, however, any employment must comply with the 30-hour weekly maintain student status. 

What options exist for employment after completing studies in Spain? 

Upon completing their studies, foreign students have several options to remain in the country and expand their professional experience. The main options include: 

• Permit for Job Search or Entrepreneurship: This residence permit is designed for students wishing to extend their stay in Spain to seek employment relevant to their field of study or to initiate a business venture. The permit is valid for 12 months, during which the student can explore employment opportunities in the Spanish labor market.
  • To qualify, students must demonstrate that they have completed higher education studies in a Spanish institution and that their intended stay is aimed at finding employment or entrepreneurship. 
• Transition from Student Visa to Work Visa (Employment with an Employer): If a student receives a job offer in Spain, they may apply to transition from a student visa to a residence and work visa for employment with an employer. This type of authorization allows them to work formally for an employer within the country. 
  • The company must handle the process of obtaining the work and residence permit, adhering to employment regulations for foreign workers. Gentile Law advises and assists companies and students in the process of obtaining a work visa to ensure smooth entry into the labor market. 
• Transition from Student Visa to Highly Qualified Professional Work Visa: This authorization is tailored to students with advanced training in areas considered highly qualified. This permit facilitates the integration of international talent in sectors requiring a high level of specialization, such as technology, science, and innovation. To qualify, the applicant must: 
  • Hold an advanced academic degree (master`s, doctorate, etc.) obtained in Spain or validated in Spain.
  • Demonstrate that the position offered is of a high professional level and that the employer meets the legal and economic requirements necessary to hire qualified professionals. 
  • In certain cases, possess prior experience in the field, although this is not mandatory if the educational profile is sufficiently relevant.
  • This authorization allows employment in highly specialized roles and offers administrative advantages, accelerating the regularization process and permitting the applicant to bring direct family members, if desired. 
• Transition from Student Visa to Work Visa for Professional Internships: This option is designed for students who wish to engage in professional internships with a Spanish company upon completing their studies. These internships allow students to gain work experience in their field of training, facilitating their transition into the formal labor market. 
  • The transition to this type of visa may serve as a preliminary step towards future employment, enabling students to develop practical skills within a professional setting. 

Recommendations for foreign students seeking employment in Spain 

To streamline the process and avoid legal compilations, it is advisable for students to consider the following: 

• Maintain documentation up-to-date: Ensuring that both the student visa and work authorization are valid in according with Spanish regulations is essential.
• Compatibility between studies and employment: Employment should not negatively affect the student`s academic performance.
• Compliance with the maximum permitted work hours: Adhering to the 30-hour weekly limit outside of vacation periods prevents penalties and ensures compliance with immigration laws. 

By following these guidelines, foreign students can take full advantage of employment opportunities in Spain, gaining valuable experience that may open doors to new professional options within the country. 

Gentile Law has a specialized team dedicated to advising students and companies on immigration matters. Our goal is to ensure that student employment and visa transitions in Spain do not pose obstacles to developing a robust professional career in the country. From guidance on permit applications to assistance with visa transitions, we support our clients throughout each step of the process to ensure they meet legal requirements and maximize their employment opportunities in Spain. 

Pablo Lanfranchi 

pablolanfranchi@gentile.law

+ 34 604 51 60 52