Includes license requirements for key professional services that are open to U.S. service providers.
Last Published: 6/21/2019

Non-EU/European Economic Area (EEA) nationals need a residence and employment permit to work in Spain. However, there are some exceptions although they may still need to apply for a visa or residence permit to come to Spain.  Some of these exceptions include university professors, technicians and scientists, professionals invited to Spain to develop scientific or cultural programs, foreign journalists, artists coming for specific performances, and clergy.

A new program was introduced in 2014 that allows non-EU national investors, entrepreneurs, highly qualified professionals and researchers to apply for fast-track visas and permits as a result of investing in the country.  Contact the Spanish Embassy or Consulate for more information.

Certain professions need specific qualifications to practice in Spain.  Please check out the following links for more details:

Regulated professions; Key Link
Free movement of professionals: Key Link

The office that provides assistance with the recognition of professional qualifications and advice on how to navigate through the administrative formalities is:

Subdirección General de Títulos y Reconocimiento de Cualificaciones
Secretaría General de Universidades
Ministerio de Educación, Cultura y Deporte
Torrelaguna, 58
28027 Madrid
Tel: +34 91 506 5636
Email: gloria.nistal@mecd.es

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