Work Authorization for International Students in Spain

Table of Contents

Description

What is it?

Work authorization for students is a legal provision that allows international students to undertake work in Spain, subject to certain conditions. It permits non-EU citizens to both study and work in the country.

Who needs it?

This is ideal for international students (non-EU nationals) who want to study in Spain and at the same time, desire to make a living or gain work experience in the country.

Procedure

  1. Secure Admission: The first and most crucial step is gaining admission into a Spanish university. Your admission acceptance letter is required for the process.

  2. Apply for a Student Visa: After securing admission, apply for a student visa at the nearest Spanish embassy/consulate in your home country.

  3. Arrive in Spain: After your student visa is approved, travel to Spain.

  4. Apply for Work Authorization: Approximately 3 months before starting work, apply for a work permit at the “Extranjeria” or foreigner’s office. The application form is known as “Autorización de Trabajo por Cuenta Ajena."

  5. Start Work: Once your work permit is approved, you can legally start your job.

Required Documents

  1. Admission acceptance letter from a Spanish University.
  2. Student visa from Spanish embassy/consulate.
  3. Work permit application form known as “Autorización de Trabajo por Cuenta Ajena."
  4. Passport or national identity card.

Providers that can do it for you

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Additional details

  1. It’s important to note that the work must not interfere with the student’s educational activities.
  2. Students are generally awarded a work authorization that is valid for the duration of their contract, up to a maximum of the duration of their currently valid stay.
  3. After you complete your studies, you may switch from a student visa to a work visa, although this process may require you to return to your home country and apply for a work visa through the Spanish embassy.
  4. The spouse of a student permit holder can also apply for work authorization in Spain, although their permit will be tied to the status of the student.

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