Work Permit in Spain: Types, Requirements and How to Obtain It 2026

# Work Permit in Spain: Types, Requirements and How to Obtain It 2026

Working in Spain as a non-EU citizen requires the corresponding residence and work authorisation before starting work. Breaches lead to fines for both worker and employer (up to €100,000 per employee).

Main authorisation types

• Employed (cuenta ajena): employer files the application, job offer required, national employment situation report needed except for shortage occupations
• Self-employed (cuenta propia): viable business plan, sufficient funds (>12 × minimum wage)
• EU Blue Card: salary ≥1.5× average wage, university degree or 5 years' equivalent experience
• Digital Nomad Visa (Startups Law 28/2022): remote work for non-Spanish companies, income ≥200% minimum wage; optional 24% flat IRPF rate (Beckham regime)
• Labour rootedness (arraigo laboral): 2+ years without authorisation + proven irregular employment

Lexiel checks current shortage occupation lists, calculates renewal deadlines and drafts appeals against Immigration Office refusals with verified LOEx citations.