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Work Visa (Cuenta Ajena)

Last reviewed March 2026

Employer-sponsored visa for non-EU nationals with a job offer from a Spanish company

MediumVery PopularEmployees with job offersSkilled workersProfessionals

Key Facts

Income Requirement

No minimum income for applicant β€” employer must demonstrate adequate salary per collective bargaining agreements

N/A

Can You Work?

Yes

Only for the sponsoring employer initially; can change after renewal

Initial Duration

1 year

Processing: 4-8 weeks

Path to Residency

10 years to citizenship

Total possible: 4 years total (1+1+2), then eligible for long-term residency at 5 years

Requirements

βœ“

Job offer from Spanish employer

βœ“

Employer must prove no suitable EU/EEA candidate (labor market test via SEPE)

βœ“

Signed employment contract

βœ“

Employer financial stability proof

βœ“

Education: Varies by position β€” employer handles labor market test

Required Documents

01

Valid passport (12+ months validity)

02

Completed visa application form

03

Passport photos

04

Job offer / employment contract from Spanish employer

05

Employer's proof of financial stability

06

Labor market test results (SEPE)

07

Criminal background check (apostilled)

08

Health insurance certificate

09

Qualifications relevant to the position

Cost Overview

Visa Fee

€203–408

Health Insurance

€50–150/mo

Total First-Year Estimate

€500–1,500

Employer handles most costs

Timeline

1

Processing

4-8 weeks

2

Initial Duration

1 year

3

Renewal 1

1 year

4

Renewal 2

2 years

Benefits

  • +Standard Spanish progressive tax rates (19-47%)
  • +Full social security coverage
  • +Path to permanent residency after 5 years
  • +Can change employer after renewal
  • +Includes spouse and dependents

Watch Out For

  • !Tied to sponsoring employer initially
  • !Employer must pass labor market test (SEPE)
  • !Processing can be slow if employer documentation is incomplete
  • !Must maintain employment to keep visa valid

Find out if you qualify

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