Differences between work visa and residence visa
When planning to move to Spain, one of the most important steps is to understand what type of visa you need. Among the most common options are the work visa and the residence visa, and although both allow you to live in the country, their conditions and requirements are very different.
In this article, we explain in a clear way the main differences between both visas, their requirements, duration and which option is the most suitable depending on your situation as an expatriate in Barcelona or in other Spanish cities.
What is a work visa?
The work visa in Spain is designed for foreigners who have been hired by a company in Spain, or who wish to start their own business in the country.
Main requirements:
- Have a previous job offer from a Spanish company.
- Proof of professional qualifications or experience commensurate with the position.
- The contracting company must be registered with the Social Security and comply with its tax obligations.
- In some cases, it is necessary to demonstrate that there is no Spanish or EU citizen available for the job.
Who should apply?
The company that hires you in Spain is responsible for initiating the process from Spanish territory. Once approved, you continue the process at the Spanish consulate in your country of origin.
Visa duration
The work visa has an initial duration of 1 year, renewable for as long as you maintain the employment contract. After several years, you can apply for long-term residency.
What is a residence visa?
The non lucrative residence visa allows you to live in Spain without the need to carry out an employment or professional activity. It is ideal for retirees, people with passive income or those who wish to reside temporarily in the country for personal or family reasons.
Main requirements:
- Demonstrate sufficient income to live in Spain without working (through savings, pension or passive income).
- To have private medical insurance valid in Spain.
- Not have a criminal record or have been previously rejected.
Who can apply?
The interested party must initiate the process from his or her country of origin, presenting the documentation at the corresponding Spanish consulate.
Visa duration
This visa is granted for 1 year, and can be renewed if the conditions are maintained. Eventually, it also allows to apply for long-term residence.
Main differences between work visas and residence visas
| Feature | Work Visa | Non-Profit Residency Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Requires an employment contract | Yes | No |
| Allows to work in Spain | Yes | No |
| Requires proof of income | No (done by the company) | Yes, personal income |
| Management of the procedure | Company in Spain + Consulate | Directly from your country |
| Type of residence granted | Temporary residence for work | Temporary residence without work purposes |
Which visa is best for me as an expatriate?
The choice between a work visa and a residence visa depends on your personal and professional plans:
- If you are coming to work for a Spanish company, you should opt for a work visa.
- If you are coming to live, retire or spend a long period of time without the need to work, the non lucrative residence visa is the best option.
Important: There are also other types of visas, such as student visas or visas for digital nomads, which can be tailored to specific situations. In case of doubt, it is advisable to consult an advisor specialized in foreigners.
Tips for applying for your visa in Barcelona
- Get informed in advance: Processes can take weeks or months.
- Prepare all the original documentation and translated into Spanish.
- Make an appointment at the consulate in advance, as they are usually in high demand.
- If you are already in Spain, you cannot change your tourist visa to work or residence visa directly, you will have to leave the country and do the procedure from your country of origin.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between a work visa and a residence visa in Spain is essential to properly plan your arrival in the country. If you are thinking of relocating to Barcelona, make sure you choose the option that best suits your situation, and start the process with the right information and support.
Do you want help to manage your visa or your relocation process?
At Leave and Live we offer services to carry out the administrative procedures properly, we accompany you in every step, from the documentation to your integration in the city.