Switching from a Student Visa to a Work Visa in Spain

Introduction

Studying in Spain gives you the opportunity to continue working in the country afterward. Can you work on a student visa? Yes, but only during your studies and for no more than 30 hours per week. Once you’ve graduated, if you wish to remain in Spain, you’ll need to convert your temporary student residency permit into a work residence permit. This allows you to work legally, live in Spain long-term, and access social benefits. With this permit, you can apply for jobs in major Spanish companies.

Requirements for Switching Your Permit

As mentioned above, working on a student visa is only allowed while you're enrolled in a course. Once your studies are complete, you need to apply to change your residence status. The following conditions must be met:

1. Minimum one year of residence as a student in Spain. You must have been continuously living in the country with a valid student residence card (TIE) for at least one year.
2. Job offer. The employer must have the necessary licenses, be free of tax or social security debts, and have the financial capacity to fulfill the obligations of the employment contract. If the employer is self-employed (autónomo), they must demonstrate enough income to support the employee, themselves, and any dependents.
3. Signed employment contract. The contract must guarantee continued employment for the duration of the permit and comply with Spanish labor regulations.
4. Suitability for the position. The candidate must possess the appropriate qualifications and skills for the job, proven by a diploma or training certificates.

In addition, the applicant must have completed their studies in full and must not have a criminal record in Spain or in any previous country of residence.

Application Process for Switching to a Work Visa

The process begins with gathering all necessary documents, including both originals and copies. You must complete Form EX-03 in duplicate and have it signed by the employer. Other required documents include:

1. Valid passport (plus copies of all pages with personal information).
2. Copy of the student residence card (TIE).
3. Job offer and signed employment contract.
4. Proof of qualifications – diplomas, certificates, etc.
5. Proof of financial solvency from both the employer and the employee.
6. Valid health insurance.
7. Criminal record certificate, issued within the last 6 months.

Once the documents are prepared, submit them to the local immigration office and pay the required government fee. The receipt of payment must be included with the application. Processing typically takes 1 to 3 months. Immigration authorities may request additional documents, such as further proof of qualifications. If the application is approved, you’ll need to visit the police station to provide fingerprints and receive your plastic residence card (TIE).

Tips for Success:

1. Double-check all documents before submission to ensure completeness and accuracy. Professional consultants can help with this process.
2. Apply well in advance to avoid overstaying your student visa.
3. Use online services to track the status of your application.
4. For the best results, consider hiring an immigration expert to guide you through the process.

Switching to Self-Employment Residence

If the student plans to start a business in Spain, they can apply for a residence permit for self-employment. In this case, the following documents are required: A detailed business plan, which should include:

1. Project description (name, address, type of business, launch timeline, number of employees, required licenses, and investment amount).
2. Organizer's background (education, professional experience, financial status).
3. Business details (expenses, suppliers, equipment).
4. Product or service descriptions, planned investments, unique features.
5. Market analysis (sector, competition, customer profile, demand/supply).
6. Sales and pricing strategies, marketing and advertising approach.
7. Organizational structure (number and type of jobs, employee training plans).

The financial section must outline expected investments, projected income and expenses, and a tax payment strategy for the next three years.

Conclusion

A work visa enables legal employment in Spain. After completing your studies, you can immediately convert your student permit into a work residence permit without leaving the country. To do so, gather the necessary documents and sign an employment contract. If you plan to start your own business, a solid business plan is essential. Handling this process independently can be challenging. Reaching out to the experts at El Relocator can help you prepare more effectively and ensure a smooth transition.