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Work & jobs in Spain
Work rules in Spain depend on your nationality and residence status. EU/EEA citizens can usually work freely; non-EU citizens should confirm that their permit allows the job before signing.
Employment offices in Spain
SEPE: Employment service & unemployment benefits.
Job-search and permit steps
Get your NIE / TIE: The NIE is your unique foreigner number. EU citizens get a green certificate; non-EU get a TIE card. Book a cita previa — On sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es — choose 'Asignación NIE' or 'Toma de huellas'. Appointments are scarce; try early morning. Pay the tax (modelo 790) — Form 790 code 012, ~12 €. Pay at any bank or online. Attend with documents — Passport + copy, completed EX-15 (NIE) or EX-17 (TIE), photos, proof of reason (work contract, study, family). Healthcare (Tarjeta Sanitaria): Universal public healthcare for residents. Free at point of use; small co-pay on prescriptions. Get a social security number — Apply at TGSS with passport + NIE + work contract or proof of residence. Register at your health center — Go to your nearest Centro de Salud with padrón, social-security number, NIE. Without contributions — If you have no work history, request 'asistencia sanitaria a personas sin recursos' — covers you once empadronado.
Contracts and worker rights
Ask for a written contract before the first shift. It should show working hours, salary, probation, holiday, sick leave and notice period. Keep payslips and messages from the employer in case you need help from a union or labour office.
Diplomas and regulated professions
Doctors, nurses, teachers, drivers, electricians and other regulated workers usually need formal recognition before working independently. Start recognition early because it can take months.
Frequently asked questions
Where do newcomers look for jobs in Spain?
Start with SEPE, recognised employers, local job portals and municipal integration offices.
Which office should I contact first in Spain?
Start with SEPE. For broader newcomer help, also check Extranjería (Oficina de Extranjeros), Ayuntamiento (Padrón), Seguridad Social (TGSS).
What language will offices use in Spain?
The main administrative language is Spanish. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do I need to speak the local language to work?
Not always — many international employers work in English. But for public-sector roles and most customer-facing jobs, local language is expected.
What is the minimum wage?
It varies widely across the EU. Your national employment authority publishes current rates.