Jobs in Spain

Where the jobs are in Spain

Spain does not have one job market but several. Madrid and Barcelona hire all year round – office, sales, IT, retail, healthcare. On the coasts and islands the season sets the pace: the Balearics and the Mediterranean coast hire mainly for summer, while in the Canary Islands winter is high season. If you are flexible about where you live, there is almost always a region in Spain that is hiring right now.

What you need to work in Spain

As an EU citizen you can work in Spain without a work permit. For a contract you need an NIE (it appears on the EU citizen registration certificate) and a Spanish social security number; you apply for both locally. Without an EU passport you generally need a residence and work permit before you can start. With every offer, check whether the pay is meant over 12 or 14 payments – that makes the biggest difference when comparing.

Frequently asked questions

Can I simply work in Spain as an EU citizen?

Yes. You do not need a work permit, but for a contract you need an NIE and a social security number. If you stay longer than three months, you register with the Central Register of Foreign Nationals and receive the registration certificate showing your NIE.