Language
Spanish
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Capital City
Madrid
Why work in Spain?
Spain isn’t just about sangria and siestas (though those do exist, occasionally). It’s a country where great weather meets a relaxed lifestyle, and where digital nomads, creatives, and professionals from all industries are finding their place. From buzzing cities like Barcelona and Madrid to sunny coastal towns, Spain offers strong social benefits, a growing tech scene, and a culture that values both connection and quality of life. Whether you're relocating or working remotely, it’s one of Europe’s most rewarding places to call home.
Employment & Compliance
Employment taxes
- Income tax (IRPF): Ranges from 19% to 47%, depending on your income bracket. The more you earn, the more you contribute.
- Social security contributions (employee): About 6.45% of your salary.
- Employer contributions: Around 31%, covering pensions, healthcare, unemployment, etc.
Leave policy
Spain knows how to rest right.
- Paid vacation: Minimum 22 working days annually (+14 public holidays)
- Sick leave: Paid from day 4 onward (days 1–3 unpaid unless your employer steps in)
- Maternity leave: 16 weeks paid, fully covered by social security
- Paternity leave: Also 16 weeks paid. Yes, dads get equality!
- Parental leave: Additional unpaid leave possible for up to 3 years
Employment termination
- Notice period: Usually 15 days, unless stated otherwise in the contract
- Severance pay: Yes, and it’s calculated based on type of contract and reason for dismissal
- Spain has solid protections for workers, firings must follow legal processes
Hiring and contracts
- Most workers are hired with indefinite or fixed-term contracts
- Contracts must be in writing and include salary, working hours, leave, notice periods, etc.
- Probation periods: Up to 6 months for qualified roles
Payroll and salary payments
- Minimum wage: €1,134 per month (14 payments a year) or €1,323 per month (12 payments)
- Payroll frequency: Typically monthly, with optional summer and Christmas bonuses
- Employers must provide a payslip detailing deductions and contributions
Benefits
Mandatory benefits
These are benefits you must get as an employee in Spain, backed by law and social security:
- Social security coverage: Includes healthcare, pensions, unemployment benefits, and work injury insurance
- Paid annual leave: Minimum of 22 working days per year plus public holidays
- Sick leave: Paid by social security after the third day of illness
- Maternity and paternity leave: 16 weeks fully paid by social security
- Unemployment benefits: Available if you meet contribution requirements
Optional benefits: private health insurance, life and disability insurance, gym memberships, training and development budget, childcare support or vouchers.
Living & Working in Spain
Monthly living costs (Madrid Edition)
Living in the capital? Here’s what to expect:
- Rent (1-bed apt): €900–€1,300/month
- Groceries: €250–€400/month
- Transport: €55/month for a metro card
- Coffee: €1.50
- Wine: €3–€5 a glass (because, Spain)
Getting a local ID number (NIE)
Whether you're a resident or a remote worker, you’ll need an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero).
- Book an appointment at your local police station or foreigners’ office
- Bring ID, proof of address, employment/contract letter, and fill out form EX-15
- Pay a small fee at a local bank, and you’re on your way to becoming officially Spanish
Social security registration
Employees are registered by their employer. Freelancers and remote workers need to:
- Register with TGSS (Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social)
- Get a social security number (Número de Afiliación)
- Once you contribute, you get access to healthcare, pensions, unemployment, and more
Banking
To open a bank account:
- Bring your passport/NIE
- Proof of address (rental contract or utility bill)
- Employment contract or proof of income
- Most banks now offer online account setup, and some offer expat-friendly services (like English-speaking support)
- Popular banks: Banco Santander, BBVA, CaixaBank, Kutxabank, Sabadell.
Housing and rental process
Renting is straightforward but competitive:
- Most leases are for 12 months, renewable up to 5–7 years
- Expect to pay 1–2 months’ deposit
- Tenant rights are strong. Landlords must give at least 30 days’ notice to end a lease
Pro tip: Use local websites like Idealista or Fotocasa, and act fast, good listings go quickly!
Healthcare system
Spain has one of Europe’s best public health systems:
- Free or low-cost healthcare for residents
- Most expats access it via social security contributions
- Private insurance is also affordable and widely used for faster appointments
Driving and public transport
- Public transport in cities is excellent (metro, buses, trains, e-scooters)
- Affordable monthly passes and reliable service
- Non-EU drivers need to exchange or validate licenses after 6 months (some exceptions apply)
- Want to road trip? Spain’s highways are a joy to drive (and often toll-free)
Emergency and important contacts
- Emergency (Police, Fire, Medical): 112
- Local police: 092
- Health emergency: 061
- Foreigner support helpline: Varies by region, check your city hall (ayuntamiento)
Work permit and Visa requirements
- EU/EEA citizens: No visa needed
- Non-EU citizens: Need a work visa or digital nomad visa (for remote workers)
- Most applications require:
- Employment contract or proof of remote work
- Background checks
- Proof of income
- Health insurance
- Apply via your local Spanish consulate or embassy before arrival
Business culture and work norms
- Hierarchical but warm, titles matter, but relationships matter more
- Punctuality is appreciated but flexible depending on the region
- Expect long lunch breaks (1–2 hours), especially in smaller cities
- Face time still matters, though remote work is growing
- Meetings often feel like conversations, so don’t be afraid to speak up
Need work permits or visa in Spain?
Swapp Agency offers Work Permit services. Contact us for an offer!
- EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: Can live and work in Spain without a visa or work permit.
- Non-EU/EEA citizens: Must obtain a residence visa and work permit before entering Spain.
- Processing time: The average processing time is 1 to 3 months, depending on the applicant's nationality and the type of employment. Delays may occur if additional documentation is required or during peak periods.
- Employer obligations: Employers must provide a job offer and necessary supporting documentation and ensure full compliance with Spanish immigration laws.
Need assistance with the work permit process?
As your Employer of Record, we handle visa and work permit applications end-to-end, ensuring a smooth and compliant hiring process in Spain. Contact us today to learn how we can support your hiring needs.
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