If you're considering working in Spain, obtaining the right visa is crucial. Spain offers different types of work visas based on employment type and duration. This guide will walk you through the essential details of the Residence and Employment Work Visa (TRA) and the Residence Visa with Work Permit Exemption (TRE), including requirements, application procedures, and key considerations.

1. Residence and Employment Work Visa (TRA)

This visa is designed for individuals aged 16 and over who wish to work in Spain with a valid work contract. It also covers seasonal work opportunities.

Required Documents:

1. Visa Application Form – Must be completed and signed by the applicant (or a parent if the applicant is a minor).
2. Passport Photo – A recent, passport-sized photo with a light background, without any obstructions on the face.
3. Valid Passport – Original and photocopy of the biometric data pages. The passport must be valid for at least four months and have two blank pages.
4. Work Authorization Approval – A copy of the employer’s Autorización de Residencia y Trabajo por Cuenta Ajena (authorization for residency and employment).
5. Work Contract – Stamped copy of the contract by the Foreign Nationals' Office.
6. Criminal Record Certificate – Must be no older than three months and legalized/apostilled. A sworn translation into Spanish is required.
7. Medical Certificate – Must confirm that the applicant does not suffer from any serious contagious diseases. It should be legalized/apostilled and officially translated into Spanish.
8. Proof of Residence in the Consular District – Documents verifying legal residence in the relevant consular district.
9. Proof of Identity for Minors – Parent’s ID and proof of kinship if the applicant is underage.
10. Visa Fee Payment – The required fee must be paid at the time of application.

Application Process:

• Applications must be submitted in person at the Consular Office within one month of employer notification.
• An appointment is required; applicants must email the Consulate with personal details and supporting documents.
• The legal processing period is one month but may take longer if additional documents or interviews are required.
• Once approved, the visa must be collected within one month from the notification date.

Validity:

1. For contracts lasting one year or more, the visa is valid for 90 days, after which the applicant must register with Social Security and apply for a Foreigner Identity Card within one month.
2. Seasonal work visas are valid for the entire employment duration without the need for a Foreigner Identity Card.

2. Residence Visa with Work Permit Exemption (TRE)

This visa applies to individuals working in Spain under special conditions, where a work permit is not required.

Eligibility:

1. Scientists, researchers, and technicians hired by Spanish public institutions.
2. University teachers, academic staff, and researchers invited by Spanish universities.
3. Managerial, teaching, or research staff from cultural or educational institutions officially recognized by Spain.
4. Foreign media correspondents.
5. Civil or military officials performing activities under agreements with the Spanish Administration.
6. Religious ministers and members of the Church hierarchy with strictly religious duties.

Required Documents:

1. Visa Application Form – Completed and signed.
2. Passport Photo – Recent, passport-sized with a light background.
3. Valid Passport – Must meet the validity requirements mentioned above.
4. Residence Authorization Fees – Forms 790-052 and EX-09 must be filled and paid at the Consulate.
5. Proof of Work Exemption Eligibility – Invitation or contract with a Spanish institution, along with project details and professional background.
6. Criminal Record Certificate – Must be legalized/apostilled and translated into Spanish.
7. Medical Certificate – Confirming the applicant is free from serious contagious diseases.
8. Proof of Residence in the Consular District – Verification of legal residence within the consular jurisdiction.
9. Proof of Identity for Minors – Parent’s ID and proof of kinship if the applicant is underage.
10. Visa Fee Payment – Fees vary based on exchange rates and must be paid during application submission.

Application Process:

1. The visa application must be submitted in person at the Consular Office.
2. The processing time is one month, extendable if additional documents are required.
3. Applicants will receive a receipt with a tracking code for their visa status.
4. The visa must be collected within one month of approval.

Sworn Translations and Legalizations

1. All documents in a language other than Spanish must be translated by a Sworn Translator-Interpreter registered in Spain.
2. Legalization or Hague Apostille is required for foreign-issued documents (except for EU-issued official documents).

Appeals and Visa Refusals

1. If a visa is refused, applicants will receive a written explanation.
2. A reconsideration appeal can be filed with the Consular Office within one month.
3. Judicial review appeals can be filed at the High Court of Justice of Madrid within two months.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a Spanish work visa involves strict documentation and processing guidelines. It’s essential to ensure all documents are in order, translated where required, and submitted within the designated timeframe. If you need legal or translation assistance, seek professional services to facilitate the application process

For the latest updates and requirements, refer to the official Spanish Consulate website.