Get to know Spain

Ah, Spain! A veritable tapestry of cultural richness, natural beauty, and culinary delights that beckons the wanderlust in all of us. Picture this: a country so replete with World Heritage Sites it’s only trumped by one other, a place where nature’s bounty is protected with a fervour matched only by the dedication to its stunning beaches – Spain has more Blue Flags fluttering in the coastal breeze than anywhere else in the Northern Hemisphere!

But wait, there’s more! Spain isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s a crucible of learning. With universities older than the concept of queueing and business schools so prestigious, they make Oxbridge look like a pair of plucky upstarts. And let’s not forget, this nation is the top choice for those intrepid Erasmus adventurers, drawn not just by the promise of tapas and fiestas but by the lure of immersing themselves in the world’s second most spoken language.

Residing in Spain

Planning a little sojourn, or perhaps tempted to cast anchor in these Iberian waters for a spell? Well, you’ll need the official nod of approval before you pack your sunhat. A visa is your golden ticket here, whether you’re eyeing a fleeting visit or have grand designs on becoming a local. Short-term stays have their charm, but for those who find themselves under Spain’s spell, a long-term residency might just be the ticket, offering the same rights to work and play as the Spaniards themselves.

Long-term residency is the situation that authorises indefinite residency and a work permit in Spain, under the same conditions as for Spanish citizens. Foreign citizens that have had temporary residency in Spain for five years continuously and that meet the conditions established at law will be entitled to long-term residency. For the purposes of obtaining long-term residency, previous and continuous periods of residency in other Member States as holders of the European Union blue card will be calculated to this end.

The requirements and documentation necessary to visit Spain

Studying in Spain

And for the bright young things with dreams of academia, Spain rolls out the red carpet, provided you’ve got that all-important letter of acceptance. Stay longer than six months, and you’ll be swapping your passport photo for a student card quicker than you can say “fiesta”.

Foreign citizens that wish to stay in Spain to study at school or extend their education, perform research or training activities, non-remunerated work experience, take part in student exchange programmes or carry out voluntary services must obtain the corresponding visa, which will include the initial authorisation to stay in Spain. One of the most important requirements for obtaining a study visa is to have a letter of admission from the school or university where the education programme will be studied.

Working in Spain

As for working in Spain, it’s all about getting that official thumbs-up before you dive into the job market. The rules are simple: over 16, tick; the right paperwork, tick; and a work visa that’s your key to the city. EU citizens, you’ve got it a tad easier, with a set of rules as warm and welcoming as a Mediterranean embrace.

Individuals must be over 16 years old (unless engaging in self-employment, requiring a minimum age of 18). Additionally, they must have previously secured the appropriate authorisation to reside and work in Spain, a process typically initiated by the prospective employer. Following the issuance of residency and work authorisation, obtaining a visa is the next step in the process.