Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 15 July 2025 to reflect various changes in visa requirements, job market trends, and other factors.
Introduction
As a UK Expat who’s moved to Spain twice and spent over 15 years living here — including the last two working remotely — I know how rewarding life and work in Spain can be. In my experience, it’s one of the best places in the world to build a new life. With a lower cost of living, great weather, and a relaxed lifestyle, it’s easy to see why so many are drawn to working here.
Whether you’re from the UK, the US, or elsewhere, Spain offers opportunities in remote work and on-the-ground roles in sectors like hospitality, teaching, or tech.
In 2025, it’s fair to say the country’s job market is changing. The number of Expat jobs in Spain appears to be growing as sectors such as technology, healthcare, tourism, and education seek international talent. This is partly driven by government policy aimed at attracting high-value workers to Spain.
Flexible work options, a thriving digital nomad/remote working scene, and regional differences in opportunities mean there’s something for everyone.
This guide gives you everything you need to make a successful Spanish job search. You’ll find clear, actionable steps for landing a job, legal information about visas and paperwork, and up-to-date insights into the Spanish job market.
Understanding the Spanish Job Market in 2025
Economic Outlook and Employment Trends
Spain’s job market in 2025 is marked by robust economic growth and a strong rebound from recent global challenges. Figures from the Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE) show that in Q1 2025, the total workforce was 21.76M (up 2.43% year-on-year), with the unemployment rate at 11.36% (down 0.93%).
The workforce is projected to exceed 22 million in 2025, with unemployment rates dropping to around 10.5%, the lowest in over a decade. From 2025 to 2035, employment is forecast to grow at 1.1% annually, faster than the EU-27 average of 0.3%. The number of foreign workers in Spain also jumped by 6%, reaching 3.3 million compared with the previous year. Increased household consumption, a thriving tourism sector, and ongoing digital transformation drive this momentum.
Permanent contracts are now more common, and wage growth is outpacing inflation, making Spain an increasingly attractive destination for both EU and non-EU Expats.
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High-Demand Sectors for Expat Jobs in Spain
If you have experience or qualifications in any of these fields, you have a significantly improved chance of landing a job in Spain:
Tourism & Hospitality
Spain’s world-renowned tourism industry continues to generate significant job opportunities, especially in coastal regions and major cities. In the first four months of 2025, tourist arrivals in Spain reached 25.6 million, a 7.1% increase from the same period in 2024.
As a result, hotels, restaurants, and event agencies are actively seeking staff, with a strong emphasis on English and other language skills.
In-demand roles:
- Hotel and Restaurant Staff
- Chefs and Bartenders
- Travel and Event Agents
Teaching English
International schools, language academies, and private tutoring remain strongholds for Expats, particularly native English speakers. TEFL certification is often required, and demand is high in cities like Madrid, Valencia, and Marbella.
In-demand roles:
- English and French Teachers (TEFL/FLE certified)
- Bilingual Subject Teachers
- Private Tutors
IT & Tech
The tech sector is thriving, especially in Madrid and Barcelona. Roles such as software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists are in high demand. Many tech jobs offer remote or hybrid work options, and English is commonly used in the workplace.
If you have any experience working in big data, computer engineering, cybersecurity, e-commerce, or computer management, you’ve got a good chance of being hired.
In-demand roles:
- Full-stack Developers
- Cloud Engineers
- Data Analysts
- DevOps & Cybersecurity Specialists
Healthcare
An ageing population and rural understaffing have created a need for nurses, doctors, and caregivers. Regions like Galicia and Andalucía are particularly keen to attract foreign medical professionals, with EU qualifications often being recognized.
In-demand roles:
- Nurses and Caregivers
- Physiotherapists
- General practitioners
Remote and Freelance Work
Spain has emerged as a top destination for remote workers. It ranks as the best country for remote working according to a 2024 digital nomad report by Global Citizen Solutions.
The country has embraced remote work, with about 15% of employees working from home and 3.06 million people who at least occasionally worked from home (Q4 2023). Although this is below the EU average, specific factors make Spain an ideal destination for remote working Expats.
As of 2025, Spain leads Europe in remote job offers, with around 20.5% of job listings including remote or hybrid options, well above the European average. Around 70% of vacancies are in the IT and Telecommunications sector. Other remote-friendly sectors include marketing, customer support, and creative industries.
Nearly 40% of Spanish enterprises with ten or more employees allow remote working. All this is driven by technological innovation, supportive government policies, and a thriving digital infrastructure that enables seamless collaboration for remote teams.
The result is that Expats can live and work anywhere in Spain — from the major cities like Madrid and Barcelona to picturesque coastal towns. Some autonomous communities (comunidades autonómas) actively encourage people to move to their region.
For example, currently, Extremadura, in western Spain, is running its Extremadura Digital Nomad Grant program. This offers digital nomads up to €10,000 (€8,000 for most applicants) to relocate to the comunidad for a period of two years as remote workers. An additional €4-5,000 is available upon completion of the commitment. The region features low living costs, welcoming locals, authentic Spanish culture, and good transport links to Madrid. You can apply online at the Junta de Extremadura website.
The Digital Nomad Visa, introduced in late 2022, has played a key role in this. It allows non-EU citizens to live and work remotely from Spain for foreign employers or as freelancers (autónomos). This visa represents a game-changing opportunity for Expats, offering up to one year initially (if applying from abroad), or up to three years if applying from within Spain, with renewals available every two years for up to a total of five years. It gives you a pathway to permanent residency, making it an attractive long-term option for international professionals.
READ ALSO OUR ‘WORKING REMOTELY’ SERIES:
>> Working Remotely in Spain for a US Company: Your Complete Guide 2025
>> Working Remotely in Spain for a UK Company >> 2025 Visa, Tax & Social Security
>> Working Remotely in Spain for an EU Company >> 2025 Law & Tax Rules
Expat Jobs in Spain: Salary Expectations
As an Expatriate considering a job in Spain, you should prepare for a potential salary adjustment. The average annual gross salary in Spain is about €31,600, with the post-tax average wage approximately €2,000 monthly. Compared to international markets, Spanish salaries are notably lower. For example, the average wage in Spain is lower than the UK’s average of £37,000 (~€43,000). However, the lower cost of living, strong public services, and high quality of life impact the financial equation.
The cost-of-living advantage is crucial for Expats. €30,000 is a good base salary for a single person living in Spain, providing comfortable living standards in even the most expensive regions. For instance, monthly expenses in Madrid or Barcelona are significantly less than in London or New York, with rent and daily costs up to 40% lower. This means that while take-home pay may be smaller, you’ll often enjoy a comparable or even improved quality of life.
Salary expectations vary significantly by profession and location. Software developers, data scientists, and IT consultants can earn between €40,000 and €80,000 annually, depending on experience, while engineers can expect salaries ranging from €35,000 to €65,000. Tourism and hospitality jobs are closer to €18,000–€25,000.
When considering jobs in Spain, it is better to focus on overall lifestyle value rather than salary alone. I once heard a tax expert say: “No one comes to Spain to pay less tax”! Weighing factors like work-life balance, healthcare, and climate is essential.
Understand your Cost of Living in Spain
Using our detailed research, we have created this clever tool. Answer a few questions, and our calculator will give you a high-level idea of how much money you need to live the life you want in Spain.
Regional Differences
Researching regional salary differences and negotiating benefits — such as flexible hours or remote work — can further enhance your Expat experience.
- Madrid, Barcelona, and Bilbao
Offer the highest salaries and most job opportunities, especially in tech, finance, and international business. However, living costs are also the highest here. - Valencia & Málaga
Provide a better balance of job opportunities and affordable living, with established and growing Expat communities and strong demand in tourism, education, and healthcare. - Seville
Lower cost of living and a vibrant cultural scene, but fewer high-paying jobs compared to Madrid and Barcelona.
Opportunities for English Speakers
Expats who speak English and other languages besides Spanish are in high demand in the tourism, education, and multinational company sectors. While speaking Spanish undoubtedly broadens opportunities, many roles — especially in tech and teaching —are accessible to non-Spanish speakers.
Who Can Work in Spain? Visa & Legal Requirements
Spain welcomes Expats from around the world, but you need a work visa to legally work if you’re not an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen. Understanding the available visa types, the application process, and essential paperwork is essential. It’s crucial you choose the right visa to avoid unwanted surprises down the road.
Overview of Visa Types
There is a range of nine work visas open to non-EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens. We cover them in detail in our Spain Work Visa Guide 2025 >> How to Qualify & Apply article.
The three visas the majority of non-EU citizens take up are:
| Visa Type | Core Requirement | What it Allows | Common Roles/ Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work Visa (Visado de Trabajo y Residencia) | Job offer from a Spanish employer | Legal employment and residence in Spain, typically for one year, renewable | Skilled professionals, seasonal workers |
| Digital Nomad Visa | Working remotely for foreign companies or as self-employed (autónomos) | Live and work from Spain for one to three years initially, renewable for up to five years | Proof of remote employment or self-employment, minimum income threshold, private health insurance |
| Student Visa (with Work Rights) | Enrolled in a recognized Spanish educational institution | Part-time work (up to 30 hours/week) during studies, and sometimes post-study work options | Possible post-study employment option |
NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) and Social Security (Número de la Seguridad Social (NUSS)) Numbers
NIE Number
Every foreigner working or living in Spain needs an NIE. This unique identification number is required for employment contracts, opening a bank account, paying taxes, and signing rental agreements. Without an NIE, you can’t do much in Spain.
ADVICE: If you are offered a job without being asked for your NIE, you won’t have any of the protection of a legal work contract.”
For an in-depth explanation of how to apply for your NIE, see:
Número de la Seguridad Social (NUSS) Number
If you are employed directly by a Spanish company, you will need your Social Security number to be legally employed and have access to public healthcare. Your employer usually arranges it, but you can apply at the local Social Security office.
If you are working as an autónomo on a Digital Nomad Visa, you will have had to register for a social security number before becoming autónomo. The upside is that you can access the public healthcare system without needing to purchase medical insurance. The downside is that after the first year of being autónomo, the monthly contributions go up substantially from the discounted first-year flat rate.
You can obtain your NUSS online or in person. For online applications, use the Import@ss portal using a digital certificate, Cl@ve PIN, or SMS verification. Complete the online form and upload your NIE or passport along with any required documents.
Alternatively, book an appointment at your local Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social (TGSS) office and bring your passport or NIE, proof of address, and the completed TA-1 application form. Submit your documents, and you’ll typically receive your Social Security number immediately or electronically.
How to Find a Job in Spain
Finding a job in Spain is no different from finding one anywhere else. You need a blend of smart searching, adaptation of your application materials, and an understanding of the local work culture. The last one is where most Expats see the biggest difference.
Where to Search: Job Boards, Agencies, and Networking
| Category | Name | Description |
| English-Speaking Job Boards | Widely used for local and international roles | |
| Xpatjobs.com | Focused on English-speaking and Expat-friendly positions in Spain | |
| Teachaway.com | Ideal for teaching English and education sector roles | |
| Spanish-Language Job Sites | Infojobs.net | The largest Spanish job portal, covering all sectors |
| Trabajos.com | Popular for blue-collar and service industry jobs | |
| Turijobs.com | Specializes in tourism and hospitality roles | |
| Indeed España | Aggregates job listings from multiple sources in Spain | |
| Recruitment Agencies | Adecco | International agency with offices across Spain; offers services in English |
| Randstad | Leading recruitment agency with nationwide coverage | |
| Michael Page | Specialist in professional and executive recruitment | |
| Hays | Global recruitment agency with a strong presence in Spain |
Networking
“It’s not what you know, but who you know” is true everywhere, but even more so in Spain. Making professional connections through networking events and casual meetings is the ace up your sleeve and gives you much more access to Expat jobs.
Get yourself out there through in-person professional events and Expat meetups, especially in major cities, and use platforms like Eventbrite and Meetup to connect locally. Online, build personal connections with LinkedIn groups or Facebook Expat forums.
Building these connections both online and offline can lead to valuable job leads and insider opportunities.
Tailoring Your CV and Cover Letter for the Spanish Market
To boost your chances of getting hired, tweak your CV for each position you apply for. For cover letters, keep it brief (one page), formal, and tailored to the role. Address it to the hiring manager where possible, and highlight why you’re a great fit for both the job and the company.
Again, the above is a truism in job search, but it is particularly true in Spain.
Language
If the job ad is in English, and it’s an English-speaking role, submit your CV and cover letter in English. However, consider providing Spanish versions. I worked at a global company based in Madrid, where the common language was English, but many internal work conversations were conducted in Spanish. Showcasing your Spanish skills will set you apart from many other applicants.
Interview Success and Workplace Culture Insights
When looking for work in Spain, it is essential to be flexible and open-minded. The job culture is likely to be a lot different from what you’re used to. You’ll improve your chances no end and get much further if you embrace and accept it.
For example:
- Be Punctual
Arriving late for interviews and meetings is frowned upon. It’s a curious paradox that while your Spanish interviewer or colleague may arrive late, as a non-Spanish person, you are expected to be on time - Communication Style
Spanish interviews can be formal, but there’s often a friendly tone. This continues in the workplace, but be tactful when challenging superiors - Workplace Culture
Spanish workplaces value teamwork, adaptability, and personal relationships. There is a strong emphasis on trust and loyalty - Dress Code
Business attire is standard for interviews, even in creative industries. In the workplace, ‘read the room’ in your first few days to see what is accepted. If in doubt, dress up, not down
Certifications and Credential Recognition
- Professional Qualifications
If your profession is regulated (eg, healthcare, teaching, engineering), you may need to have your qualifications officially recognized (homologación). Start this process as early as possible, as it can take several months - Language Certifications
While not always required, having a Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE, Spanish proficiency) certificate can boost your prospects, especially for customer-facing roles - Additional Training
Consider short courses or certifications relevant to your field, as many Spanish employers value continuous learning
Common Challenges for Expat Jobs in Spain
Relocating to Spain offers incredible opportunities, but Expats often encounter similar hurdles. Understanding these challenges — and how to tackle them — will help you settle in.
Language Barriers
Spanish is the primary language in most workplaces. In international companies, while English is used as a common language to work with other countries, it is not unheard of for the Spanish headquarters or country office to communicate internally in Spanish. Even if this is not the case, a basic level of Spanish will get you a long way (and, of course, outside of work, too!).
How to overcome it:
- Enrol in Spanish courses or use language apps for daily practice
- Seek out language exchange meetups to build confidence
- Focus on learning industry-specific vocabulary relevant to your job
Bureaucracy and Paperwork
Spain is known for its complex bureaucracy. Expats often find the paperwork for visas, social security, and tax registration time-consuming and confusing. Delays and repeated requests for documents are common.
How to overcome it:
- Prepare all required documents in advance and keep digital and paper copies
- Use official government websites for up-to-date information
- Hire a gestor (admin consultant) to help navigate the process, especially if you’re not fluent in Spanish
- Don’t fight the system, you’ll never win!
READ ALSO >> Mastering Bureaucracy in Spain >> The Essential Guide for Expats
Cultural Differences in the Workplace
Spanish workplace culture values personal relationships, teamwork, and flexibility. Hierarchies may be less rigid, and communication styles can be more indirect than in some countries.
How to overcome it:
- Observe and adapt to local customs, such as greeting colleagues with a handshake or two kisses (doble besos)
- Be patient with a more relaxed approach to time and deadlines. But be timely in your own work
- Build trust by participating in team activities and social events
Conclusion & Next Steps
While it may seem challenging, finding Expat jobs in Spain is possible. With the right skills, work visa, and a positive mindset, you have all the tools you need to impress potential employers. And remember: Don’t fight the system!
Get a clear understanding of the job market, the correct paperwork in place, and a proactive and organized approach to your job search and networking.
Challenges like language barriers and bureaucracy are common, but embracing cultural differences and staying open to new experiences is part of what makes working in Spain unique.
Please explore our website for more in-depth guides on visas, living in Spain, and Expat experience and advice. Stay updated on the latest opportunities, or book a personalized consultation with our relocation experts for tailored advice.
Your Spanish adventure starts here. Let us help you make it a success!
Useful Links to Visa Services and Government Portals
- Spanish Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration
- Spain’s Official E-Administration Portal
- Consular Services – Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Hello,
Wonderful information. May I ask what you recommend if I have a background in education and I am a dual citizen? How should I present myself on paper? And should I translate my CV?
Thank you!
Hi Maria. You need to tailor your application and CV to the individual role. If you were applying for an English-medium school for a position teaching English, then an English CV would be fine. If you are applying for an English teacher role in a Spanish medium school, you should assume that the native language of the recruiter will be Spanish. It is essential to highlight your dual citizenship as it gives you the right to live and work indefinitely in Spain. All the best, Alastair
Hello and thank you for this information!
My family and I live in CA and are just now starting the process of researching a move to Spain. We a fortunate to be in a position to be able to financially support ourselves without working for the first year+ but I would eventually want to resume working.
The challenge is that I am a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry, I have a doctoral degree but I know this licensure is not recognized in Spain. If you have any resources that I could explore in healthcare that would allow me to continue using my expertise, I would greatly appreciate it!
Cheers!
Tiffany
Hi Tiffany. YOu can enter Spain on a non-lucrative visa and transfer to a work permit after a year. For resources specific to psychiatric nursing, I’d approach professional organizations or specialist recruitment companies as a starting point for resources. I searched for information on Reddit or Facebook, which is my standard starting point for experienced sources. Here’s the government link to the transfer of your qualifications. All the best, Alastair https://www.educacionfpydeportes.gob.es/servicios-al-ciudadano/catalogo/general/05/051270/ficha/051270.html
how easy is it to find management level jobs in construction in spain? project/construction/site manager roles?
Hi Anthony. Employement opportunities in Spain depend on your skills, language capability and the area you choose to live. Check out our Working In Spain section for more information. All the best, Alastair
Hola gracias por el aporte a la comunidad, quisiera preguntar, voy a Cadiz a realizar un master en Investigación en Ingeniería de Sistemas y de la Computación, actualmente soy Coordinador de Inteligencia de negocios, experto en análisis de datos y viajo con mi familia, que oportunidades de trabajo hay en este campo en Cadiz o cerca? voy con una niña de 3 años y mi esposa, que consejos me podrías dar gracias.
Hi John – we’d suggest following the steps in the article. Work your professional conneciotns through LinkedIn and the like, reach out to local professional and Expat groups in the area, and directly talk with target companies. All the best, Alastair
Spain’s labor market is showing solid momentum, with the workforce increasing and unemployment steadily falling. Employment is expected to grow by 1.1% yearly through 2035—well above the EU average—creating expanding opportunities across tech, healthcare, tourism, and education sectors.
The article highlights high-demand fields like hospitality, language teaching, and tech roles. Sectors such as tourism continue to thrive, especially in popular regions, while teaching positions remain robust in cities like Madrid, Valencia, and Marbella for TEFL-certified professionals.
Salary expectations are realistic and sector-dependent. While average gross wages hover around €31,600 annually (€2,633/month), IT and engineering roles can command €40,000–€80,000—underscoring the importance of aligning job aspirations with location and industry realities.
The article also clarifies visa and legal prerequisites, particularly for non‑EU/EEA professionals. The Digital Nomad Visa enables remote work from Spain for up to five years, while traditional work permits require employer sponsorship. Crucially, obtaining an NIE (Número de Identificación Fiscal) is essential for legal employment and residency.
What resonated most was the section on high-demand sectors. I liked seeing that fields like tech, healthcare, education and hospitality are actively hiring, and that English-speaking roles still exist even if you don’t speak perfect Spanish. That’s reassuring.
It reminded me that moving to a new country doesn’t always mean starting over completely—it means connecting what you already bring with what’s valued there.
I also appreciated the honest discussion of salary versus cost-of-living. The article points out that although pay in Spain may be lower than in some other countries, your quality of life can actually be better thanks to lower expenses, shorter commutes and richer culture.
That kind of practical view is refreshing and keeps expectations realistic.
If I were to add a suggestion, it would be a small “what to do now” list for readers: like update your CV for the Spanish market, join a local expat-career network, or explore job boards specific to Spain (many are mentioned). But overall, this article left me feeling more empowered and less intimidated about moving to Spain for work. For anyone thinking of making the leap, it’s a strong starting point.