Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa
Graduates and qualified jobseekers entering Spain to look for work or start a business.
The Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa is a Spanish work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€80 visa) and processing time (~1-3 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa is for
Graduates and qualified jobseekers entering Spain to look for work or start a business.
On finding work, switch to a residence/work authorisation toward PR.
Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa - eligibility criteria
- Children/grandchildren of Spanish-origin nationals or qualified graduates of Spanish institutions
- Sufficient funds to support yourself while searching
- Health insurance for the search period
- Genuine intention to seek qualified work/self-employment
- Clean criminal and immigration record
Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa (Spain) is ~€80 visa, with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a Spanish consulate in your country of residence |
| Length of stay | Up to 1 year to find work (extended under RD 1155/2024) |
| Work rights | Permitted once you find a job and register |
| Study rights | Not the purpose of the visa |
| Government fee | ~€80 visa |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months |
| Route to PR | On finding work, switch to a residence/work authorisation toward PR. |
Pathway & next steps
On finding work, switch to a residence/work authorisation toward PR.
Many applicants also compare Cuenta Ajena · Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed), HQP · Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013), Cuenta Propia · Self-Employed Residence and Work Authorisation. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Spanish route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa pitfalls we fix
Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa cost?
The Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa government fee is ~€80 visa. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs before applying.
How long does the Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa lead to permanent residence?
On finding work, switch to a residence/work authorisation toward PR.
Can I work on the Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa?
Work rights: Permitted once you find a job and register.
Who can apply for the Job-Search / Employment Authorisation Visa?
Graduates and qualified jobseekers entering Spain to look for work or start a business.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Spain government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs - official Spain immigration authority