Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed)
Non-EU workers with a Spanish employer job offer under the general work regime.
The Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed) is a Spanish work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€80 visa + work authorisation tasa ~€204 (790-062, employer-paid)) and processing time (~1-3 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed) is for
Non-EU workers with a Spanish employer job offer under the general work regime.
After 5 years of legal residence apply for long-term residence.
Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed) - eligibility criteria
- Binding job offer from a Spanish employer
- Role on the shortage occupation list or labour-market test passed
- Qualifications/experience matching the post
- Employer registered and up to date with Social Security
- No criminal record and clean immigration history
Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed) (Spain) is ~€80 visa + work authorisation tasa ~€204 (790-062, employer-paid), 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 | Employer applies in Spain; worker collects visa at consulate |
| Length of stay | Up to 1 year initial, renewals up to 4 years |
| Work rights | Employment with the sponsoring employer/occupation |
| Study rights | Permitted alongside work |
| Government fee | ~€80 visa + work authorisation tasa ~€204 (790-062, employer-paid) |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months |
| Route to PR | After 5 years of legal residence apply for long-term residence. |
Pathway & next steps
After 5 years of legal residence apply for long-term residence.
Many applicants also compare HQP · Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013), Blue Card · EU Blue Card, Seasonal · Seasonal / Temporary Work Visa. 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 Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed) pitfalls we fix
Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed) cost?
The Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed) government fee is ~€80 visa + work authorisation tasa ~€204 (790-062, employer-paid). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs before applying.
How long does the Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed) lead to permanent residence?
After 5 years of legal residence apply for long-term residence.
Can I work on the Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed)?
Work rights: Employment with the sponsoring employer/occupation.
Who can apply for the Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed)?
Non-EU workers with a Spanish employer job offer under the general work regime.
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