Unity Europe

Spain

LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Main Immigration Requirements

Link number 1 includes all information relating to migration in Spain. When entry to Spain is for a stay of less than ninety days, it is subject to the conditions of Regulation (EU) 2016/399 of 9 March 2016. The requirements for such a stay are:

  • Be in possession of a valid passport or travel document (in the case of citizens of the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, only a valid National Identity Card or passport is required).
  • Hold a valid visa, which is required for nationals of countries covered by Regulation (EU) 2018/1806 of 14 November 2018.
  • Other requirements: accreditation of sufficient financial means to stay in Spain.

Link number 2

The webpage provides detailed information about national visas for Spain. It explains that third-country nationals need a national visa for stays longer than 90 days for purposes such as work, study, or residence. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need a visa but must register in Spain. The page outlines the application process, necessary documents, scheduling appointments, attending interviews, and receiving decisions. It also includes contact details for inquiries and information on data protection and legal rights.

Link number 3

The webpage provides information for non-EU citizens wishing to study in Spain. It outlines the requirements to obtain a student visa, including admission to a recognized educational institution, proof of financial means, health insurance, and necessary documentation. The page details the application process, where to apply, and the duration and renewal of permits. It also covers rights during studies, such as the ability to work, and information on family reunification and mobility within the EU.

Link number 4

The webpage provides detailed information on how to apply for asylum within Spanish territory. It outlines the steps to request an appointment, register the request, and formalise the application through an interview. The page also includes details on required documentation, the right to legal aid and interpreter services, and what happens after the interview. Additionally, it provides guidance on renewing documentation and communicating with the Asylum and Refugee Office (OAR).

Link number 5

The EU Immigration Portal provides practical information for non-EU citizens about coming to work, study, or join family in the EU. It includes guidance on visas, rights, and obligations for stays over 90 days, and provides details on moving between EU countries. It also covers specific categories like the EU Blue Card, preventing human trafficking, and offers resources like the European Migration Network. It can be searched by country and a variety of profiles such as:

  • Employed worker
  • Highly-qualified worker
  • Intra-corporate transferee (ICT)International service provider
  • Seasonal worker
  • Self-employed worker
  • Family member
  • Researcher
  • Student
  • Trainee
  • Volunteer

1. Spanish migration portal

https://www.inclusion.gob.es/web/migraciones/

 

2. Visa for Spain

https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/seul/en/ServiciosConsulares/Paginas/Consular/Visados-nacionales-Informacion-general.aspx

 

3. Study residence in Spain for non-EU citizens

https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/losangeles/en/ServiciosConsulares/Paginas/Consular/Visado-de-residencia-no-lucrativa.aspx

 

4. Applying for Asylum within the Spanish Territory

https://help.unhcr.org/spain/en/solicitar-asilo-en-espana/solicitud-de-asilo-en-territorio-espanol-2/

 

5. EU Immigration Portal (search for Spain)

https://immigration-portal.ec.europa.eu/index_en

 

Employment

Foreign workers in Spain have the right to fair working conditions, including non-discrimination, health and safety protections, and social security benefits. They are entitled to wages in line with Spanish labour laws and collective agreements. Foreign employees must comply with Spanish labour regulations, have the necessary work and residence permits, and fulfil tax obligations. They can join unions and are protected by Spanish employment laws, which provide mechanisms for dispute resolution and labour rights enforcement.

For comprehensive information on employment duties and rights for foreigners in Spain under a legal perspective, consider these useful links:

  1. Spanish Ministry of Labour and Social Economy: Official information on labour laws, employment contracts, workers' rights, and social security.
  2. SEPE (Public State Employment Service): Details on employment services, job searches, and unemployment benefits.
  3. European Commission - Your Europe: Information on working conditions, rights, and social security coordination.
  4. Guide to Working in Spain (Expatica): A comprehensive guide for expats on working conditions, contracts, and employee rights.
  5. Eu Blue Card EU Blue Card in Spain: Information about eligibility criteria, the application process, salary requirements, validity, costs, and processing times. It specifies that applicants need a valid work contract for highly-qualified employment, meet a minimum salary threshold, and provide various documents. The Blue Card is initially valid for one year, with renewal options. The page also covers the labour market test applied in Spain and provides links for further application details.
These resources provide a thorough understanding of legal employment frameworks in Spain.

1. Spanish Ministry of Labour and Social Economy

https://www.mites.gob.es/

 

2 SEPE (Public State Employment Service):

https://www.sepe.es/HomeSepe/en/

 

3. European Commission - Your Europe

https://europa.eu/youreurope/index_en.htm

 

4. Guide to Working in Spain (Expatica)

https://www.expatica.com/es/working/

 

5. Eu blue card

https://immigration-portal.ec.europa.eu/eu-blue-card/spain_en

 

Main Citizenship Laws

To obtain Spanish citizenship, the main requirements include:

  1. Legal Residence: Continuous legal residence in Spain for a specific period, typically 10 years. Exceptions include 5 years for refugees, 2 years for nationals of Ibero-American countries, and 1 year for those married to a Spanish citizen, among others
  2. Good Conduct: Proof of good civic behaviour and lack of a criminal record.
  3. Knowledge of Spanish Language and Culture: Passing exams on the Spanish language (DELE) and Spanish culture and society (CCSE).
  4. Renunciation: Renouncing previous nationality, although some exceptions apply.

For detailed information on citizenship laws for foreigners in Spain from a legal perspective, the following links are useful:

  1. Ministry of Justice (Spain) - Nationality: Official information on acquiring Spanish nationality, procedures, and requirements.
  2. Spanish Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration: Details on immigration, residency, and citizenship processes.
  3. Your Europe - Citizens: Information on nationality and residency requirements within the EU, including Spain.
  4. Expatica - Spanish Citizenship: Comprehensive guide for expats on obtaining Spanish citizenship.
These resources provide extensive information on the legal aspects of acquiring Spanish citizenship.

1. Ministry of Justice (Spain) - Nationality

https://www.mjusticia.gob.es/es/ciudadania/nacionalidad

 

2. Spanish Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration

https://www.inclusion.gob.es/en/home

 

3. Your Europe – Citizens

https://europa.eu/youreurope/index_en.htm

 

4. Expatica - Spanish Citizenship

https://www.expatica.com/es/moving/visas/spanish-citizenship-107634/

 

CULTURAL NUANCES

Social Etiquette

Spain, unlike other countries in the European Union, is a very open, warm and casual country in its social relations and customs. So much so that even some of the Spanish customs are sometimes offensive in other countries, for example talking loudly on public transport or arriving a few minutes late for an event. Among the main social norms in Spain, we find those related to food. In Spain, breakfast can take place at any time from 7:00 to almost 12:00, depending on what time a person starts the day. However, lunch is usually between 14:00 and 16:00, and dinner between 21:00 and 22:30, a somewhat later time compared to other countries.

In link 1 you will find a series of very useful social norms for day-to-day life related to food. For example, in Spain when someone invites you home for lunch or dinner, it is common to bring a small gift as a thank you, something that can be shared, such as pastries or a bottle of wine. It is also well seen to scrape your plate with bread and offer others to refill their glass.

In link 2 you will find an atlas of Spanish etiquette, from the most basic (how to greet when entering an establishment or elevator) or visits to someone's home (extending the visit to the "sobremesa").

In link 3 you will find another very complete list of etiquette and manners in Spain, which includes topics such as punctuality, how to greet (in Spain the most common thing to do when you meet someone is to greet with two kisses), humour or even topics of conversation.

1. Spanish etiquette rules related to food

https://www.yourlifeinspain.com/12-normas-etiqueta-espana-comida/

 

2. Spanish etiquette

https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/spanish-culture/spanish-culture-etiquette

 

3. Spanish etiquette and manners

https://www.expatica.com/es/living/integration/etiquette-in-spain-108364/

 

Cultural Sensitivity

Spain is a non-denominational state, so no religion has a state character. Article 16 of the Spanish Constitution of 1978 guarantees ideological, religious and worship freedom without limitations. Therefore, it is common for different religions to coexist in the country, although due to the history of the country, there are many traditions related to Christianity.

Link 1 includes useful information about the celebration of Christmas in Spain, while link 3 includes information about other traditions and festivities you should know about. Link 2 includes an in-depth analysis of cultural life in Spain, mixed with some history and general culture.

In terms of gender roles, in Spain men and women are equal under the law, and although there are still certain stereotypes and social inequalities, as a general rule there is gender equality, and it is very common for both men and women to work, etc. Likewise, the LGTBI collective is generally respected, although there are isolated cases of discrimination.

1. Christmas in Spain

https://www.yourlifeinspain.com/navidad-espana-costumbres-tradiciones/

 

2. Cultural life

https://www.britannica.com/place/Spain/Housing#ref70314 

 

3. Spanish Traditions

https://www.nomadasexperience.com/travel/tradiciones-de-espana-costumbres-y-curiosidades/

 

SUPPORT SERVICES

Settlement Services

Finding settlement services for foreigners in Spain, especially for housing, can be facilitated through various organisations and websites:

  1. Spanish Government Resources - Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration: Provides information on integration services, including housing support for immigrants.
  2. Non-Governmental Organisations - Spanish Commission for Refugee Assistance (CEAR): Offers support to refugees and asylum seekers, including housing assistance.
  3. Red Cross Spain: Provides various services including housing and integration support.
  4. Idealista: Popular real estate platform in Spain where you can find rental and sale listings.
  5. Fotocasa: Another major real estate portal with a wide range of listings.
Moreover, many municipalities in Spain offer integration programmes and support for newcomers, including housing advice and assistance. It is recommended to contact the local town hall or city council directly for specific services available in your area. These resources should help you get started in finding housing and settling into life in Spain. Be sure to check each organisation's website for specific services.

1. Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration

https://www.inclusion.gob.es/web/migraciones

 

2. Spanish Commission for Refugee Assistance (CEAR)

https://www.cear.es

 

3. Red Cross Spain

https://www.cruzroja.es/

 

4. Idealista

https://www.idealista.com

 

5. Fotocasa

https://www.fotocasa.es/

 

Employment Support Services

Employment support services for foreigners in Spain aim to facilitate smooth integration into the Spanish workforce and society, ensuring they have the necessary tools and support to succeed professionally and personally.

  1. SEPE (Servicio Público de Empleo Estatal): This is the Spanish Public Employment Service, where you can find information on job openings, unemployment benefits, and training programs.
  2. EURES Spain: EURES is a network of European employment services, providing information and job-matching services across the EU/EEA countries, including Spain.
  3. Talentoteca: An online job portal specifically aimed at international talent looking for opportunities in Spain.
  4. Chamber of Commerce: Local chambers of commerce often provide support services for businesses and sometimes offer resources or information for job seekers.
Moreover, municipal employment offices offer support and advice on employment opportunities, training, and other related services. These can vary by region or city, so it is recommended to search for the specific office in your area. It is beneficial to check LinkedIn and other social media platforms as well as local community centres, expat groups, and specialised forums or websites that cater to expatriates living and working in Spain.

1. SEPE

https://www.sepe.es/

 

2. EURES Spain

https://europa.eu/eures/portal/jv-se/home?lang=es

 

3. Talentoteca

https://www.talentoteca.es/

 

4.Global network of Spanish Chabers of Commerce

https://www.camara.es/red-global

 

Linguistic Support

The official certificate for Spanish language proficiency is known as the Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE), which is issued by the Instituto Cervantes (Link number 1) on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Education and Vocational Training, and the University of Salamanca.

The DELE certificates are internationally recognized and are divided into six levels according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR):

  1. A1 - Breakthrough
  2. A2 - Waystage
  3. B1 - Threshold
  4. B2 - Vantage
  5. C1 - Effective Operational Proficiency
  6. C2 - Mastery

Each level corresponds to progressively higher proficiency in Spanish language skills, covering listening, speaking, reading, and writing abilities. The DELE exams assess these skills through standardised tests, and candidates can choose the level that matches their current proficiency.

Moreover, for foreigners in Spain seeking to improve their Spanish language skills, there are several helpful resources available. These include popular apps like Duolingo (link number 2) and Babbel (link number 3), which offer interactive courses focusing on practical conversation skills. Additionally, SpanishDict (link number 4) provides online tools such as dictionaries and grammar guides, while Tandem (link number 5) offers a platform for language exchange with native speakers. Busuu (link number 6) features interactive exercises and grammar lessons tailored for Spanish learners. Many cities in Spain also have local language schools offering intensive courses for all levels, and Meetup (link number 7) provides opportunities to join language exchange meetups and conversation groups locally. These resources cater to diverse learning preferences, from formal education to casual practice in community settings.

1. Instituto Cervantes

https://cervantes.org/

 

2. Duolingo

https://www.duolingo.com/

 

3. Babbel

https://www.babbel.com/

 

4. SpanishDict

https://www.spanishdict.com/

 

5. Tandem

https://www.tandem.net/

 

6. Busuu

https://www.busuu.com/

 

7. Meetup

https://www.meetup.com/

 

Legal Aid

Some useful links for legal aid specifically tailored for foreigners in Spain are:

  1. N26 - Moving to Spain: This website offers Guidance on legal requirements for foreigners moving to Spain, such as residency permits, tax obligations, and other administrative procedures related to finances, as well as other information for newcomers, including financial services like bank accounts and debit cards, practical banking tips, legal requirements such as residency and taxes, cultural integration advice, customer support details, and frequently asked questions. It is designed to help expatriates manage their finances and settle into life in Spain smoothly.
  2. Spanish Bar Association (Ilustre Colegio de Abogados): Offers a directory of qualified lawyers who specialize in immigration and foreigner-related legal issues.
  3. European Consumer Centre Spain (ECC Spain): Provides legal advice and assistance on consumer rights, especially relevant for EU citizens living in Spain.
  4. European Judicial Network in Civil and Commercial Matters (Spain): Offers information on legal matters related to civil and commercial law within the European Union.

Moreover, Local Legal Aid Offices (Oficinas de Asistencia en Materia de Registro de Extranjeros) offer assistance with administrative procedures related to foreign nationals, including legal consultations. Contact your local police station or town hall for specific information.

Finally, your Embassy or Consulate will provide assistance and information on legal matters concerning your nationality while in Spain. Contact details can usually be found on your country's embassy or consulate website.

These resources offer valuable legal assistance and guidance for foreigners living or planning to live in Spain, covering a range of issues from residency and immigration to consumer rights and legal consultations.

1. N26 - Moving to Spain

https://n26.com/en-es/moving-to-spain

 

2. Spanish Bar Association

https://www.abogacia.es/

 

3. European Consumer Centre Spain (ECC Spain)

https://cec.consumo.gob.es/

 

4. European Judicial Network – Spain

https://www.ejn-crimjust.europa.eu/ejn2021/ContentDetail/EN/5/29
Healthcare Access

The Spanish public healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and is financed by social security contributions and taxes. It is a universal healthcare system in which all Spaniards and foreigners with legal residence in Spain are entitled to a health card, which guarantees free healthcare. However, all persons are guaranteed basic health care. Although health laws are regulated at national level, this is managed in a specific way by each Autonomous Community, so the processing of the health card is subject to different procedures in each of them. More info in link 1 and 2.

To obtain the individual health card, the general requirements are:

  • Have a social security number. To do so, you must register using the TA.1 form (link 4).
  • Have a DNI, passport, NIE or TIE.
  • A copy of the “empadronamiento” to prove place of residence. This is requested through the relevant town hall.
  • It is also possible for foreigners to be required to have an employment/internship contract and a work or residence visa.

The procedure for the individual health card can be done at a health centre in your town (in link 3 there is a search engine for medical centres). For more info, you can obtain an appointment with a Social Security office, here.

Likewise, any person can access private health care upon payment or contracting a private insurance policy.

1. Info on access to healthcare

https://help.unhcr.org/spain/en/donde-encontrar-ayuda-espana/acceso-a-sanidad/

 

2. Info on the Spanish healthcare system

https://www.expatica.com/es/healthcare/healthcare-basics/healthcare-in-spain-101467/ 

 

3. Search engine for medical centres

https://www.sanidad.gob.es/ciudadanos/centrosCA.do

 

4. Model TA.1

https://www.seg-social.es/wps/portal/wss/internet/Trabajadores/Afiliacion/10817/31190/572

 

EDUCATION AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Educational Opportunities

Here are some useful links and resources for educational opportunities specifically tailored for foreigners in Spain:

  1. Studying in Spain: Interesting website providing information on studying at universities and higher education institutions in Spain.
  2. Spanish Universities: Directory of universities in Spain offering courses and programmes for international students. There are different Scholarships and Grants with financial aid options available for international students studying in Spain. Check with specific universities and organisations offering scholarships.
  3. Erasmus Spain: Information on Erasmus programmes for higher education, including study abroad opportunities in Spain.
These resources provide a range of educational opportunities and support services for foreigners looking to study or further their education in Spain.

1. Studying in Spain

https://www.studying-in-spain.com/

 

2. Spanish Universities

https://www.universidades.gob.es/listado-de-universidades/

 

3. Erasmus Spain

http://sepie.es/

 

Professional Development

Immigrant integration programmes in Spain often include professional development opportunities tailored for foreigners. Here are some initiatives and organisations that focus on helping immigrants enhance their professional skills and integrate into the workforce:

  1. Youth Employment Programmes: The State Public Employment Service includes programmes for the employment of young people, including migrants.
  2. Acción contra el Hambre: Provides vocational training and entrepreneurship programmes for immigrants and refugees, aiming to improve their employability and integration prospects.
  3. Ministry of Education, Vocational Training, and Sports in English: Provides information about job openings and opportunities for foreigners interested in teaching positions in Spain. It is specifically tailored for foreign teachers looking to work in the Spanish education system.
  4. Spanish Chambers of Commerce: Local chambers of commerce often organise workshops, seminars, and networking events beneficial for professional development.
  5. ESADE Executive Education: Offers executive education programs and courses in business management, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
  6. Instituto de Empresa (IE): Provides a range of executive education programmes, including MBA and specialised courses.

Moreover, various mentoring initiatives exist in Spain that pair immigrants with professionals in their field to provide guidance and support in career development. Local organisations and chambers of commerce often facilitate such programmes.

These resources offer opportunities for foreigners in Spain to enhance their professional skills, network with industry professionals, and advance their careers through education and training tailored to various fields and interests.

1. Youth Employment (SEPE)

https://www.sepe.es/HomeSepe/Personas/encontrar-trabajo/plan-recuperacion-transformacion-resiliencia/empleo-joven.html

 

2. Acción contra el Hambre

https://www.accioncontraelhambre.org/es

 

3. Ministry of Education, Vocational Training, and Sports in English

https://www.educacionfpydeportes.gob.es/en/servicios-al-ciudadano/catalogo/profesorado/convocatorias-para-extranjeros.html

 

4. Spanish Chambers of Commerce

https://www.camara.es/red-global

 

5. ESADE Executive Education

https://www.esade.edu/executive-education/en/

 

6. IE Business School

https://www.ie.edu/business-school/

 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

National Networks

In terms of National Networks for Immigrants and Foreigners some useful links and resources of community organisations in Spain that can help them build relationships and integrate into the host community are:

  1. Red Cross Spain (Cruz Roja Española): Provides a wide range of services including language courses, social integration programs, and community events.
  2. Caritas Spain: Offers support and social integration services, including community events and initiatives.
  3. Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP): Represents local governments and municipalities in Spain, offering information on community events and services.
  4. Internations: Expatriate community platform offering social events, networking opportunities, and forums for expatriates living in Spain.
  5. Expat.com Spain: Community platform with forums, guides, and events for expatriates in Spain.

Moreover, many religious institutions, churches, mosques, synagogues, etc. and the same goes for local community centres or civic organisations in Spain organise community events and provide support networks for their members. Contact local institutions in your area.

These resources offer opportunities for immigrants and foreigners in Spain to connect with the local community, build relationships, and participate in social events and activities that promote integration and cultural exchange

1. Red Cross Spain

https://www.cruzroja.es/

 

2. Caritas Spain

https://www.caritas.es/

 

3. Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP)

https://www.femp.es/

 

4. InterNations Spain

https://www.internations.org/spain-expats

 

5. Expat.com Spain

https://www.expat.com/en/destination/europe/spain/

 

Volunteering Opportunities

In Spain there are various volunteering opportunities specifically tailored for immigrants and foreigners and here is a selection of useful links:

  1. Volunteering Spain (Hacesfalta.org): Offers a database of volunteering opportunities across Spain, including positions suitable for non-Spanish speakers.
  2. European Solidarity Corps: Provides volunteering opportunities for young people from EU and partner countries, including placements in Spain.
  3. Red Cross Spain (Cruz Roja Española): Offers various volunteering opportunities in social assistance, disaster relief, healthcare, and integration programs.
  4. Caritas Spain: Provides volunteering opportunities in social support programs, community services, and refugee assistance.
  5. Idealist: Lists volunteering opportunities in Spain, including positions with NGOs, community organisations, and social enterprises.

These are only a few of the huge offer of volunteering opportunities across different sectors and regions in Spain, providing immigrants and foreigners with ways to contribute to the community, gain valuable experience, and integrate into Spanish society.

1. Hacesfalta.org

https://www.hacesfalta.org/oportunidades/

 

2. European Solidarity Corps

https://youth.europa.eu/solidarity/young-people/volunteering_en

 

3. Red Cross Spain

https://www2.cruzroja.es/voluntariado

 

4. Caritas Spain

https://www.caritas.es/voluntariado/

 

5. Idealist Spain

https://www.idealist.org/

 

Cultural Activities

There is a huge variety of cultural activities specifically tailored for immigrants and foreigners in Spain and it is quite difficult to provide specific links as most of them are related to local realities, in particular:

  • Local Cultural Events: Check local city or municipality websites for information on cultural events, festivals, exhibitions, and performances happening in your area.
  • Museums and Art Galleries: Explore Spain's rich cultural heritage by visiting museums and art galleries.
  • Cultural Centres: Look for cultural centres and community hubs in your city or town that host workshops, language exchanges, and cultural events.
  • Tourist Information Offices: Visit local tourist information offices for guides and updates on cultural events, historical sites, and tourist attractions.
  • Eventbrite (link number 1): Search for cultural events, workshops, and gatherings in Spain, often organised by local communities and cultural institutions.
  • Cervantes Institute (Instituto Cervantes) (link number 2): Offers Spanish language courses, cultural programmes, and events for foreigners interested in Spanish culture.
  • Local Libraries: Many libraries in Spain host cultural events such as book clubs, author talks, and language workshops.
  • Theatre and Performing Arts: Explore local theatres and performing arts venues for plays, concerts, dance performances, and other cultural events.
  • Music Festivals: Check for music festivals and concerts happening in your region, showcasing a variety of genres from traditional to contemporary music.

These resources provide opportunities for immigrants and foreigners in Spain to explore and participate in cultural activities, fostering integration and appreciation for Spanish culture and heritage.

1. Eventbrite

https://www.eventbrite.es/d/spain/spain/

 

2. Cervantes Institute

https://www.cervantes.es/