Types of Residency in Spain 2026

 Spain is widely regarded as a leading global destination, attracting a diverse range of nationalities and immigrants. Spain is renowned for its quality of life, offering a luxurious and comfortable lifestyle supported by a robust infrastructure across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and tourism. The country also boasts a robust education system that ensures students obtain internationally recognized qualifications, while advanced healthcare services cater to individuals from all backgrounds. In addition, Spain’s business-friendly environment facilitates the realization of investment projects, backed by government support and favorable conditions. Furthermore, the country offers an attractive array of tourist attractions, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience at reasonable costs. At its core, Spain stands as a beacon of beauty and opportunity, welcoming individuals to explore its rich offerings, and these factors make Spain an excellent place to settle and start a new, sophisticated life with luxurious living conditions.(Residence in Spain)

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to residency options in Spain Types of Residency in Spain , detailing the different types available and the requirements for each.(Residency in Spain)

There are many types of residency in Spain, each suited to
various goals—whether you are a student, an investor
, a worker, or someone seeking a better life in Europe.

1Study visa : This is a visa to stay in Spain for the purpose of study, exceeding 90 days for study, training, internship or volunteer work. This visa can also be issued to nannies and teaching assistants (conversation assistants).

Those studying in Spain for less than 90 days do not need a student visa. 

Depending on the nationality of the applicant, a short-stay visa may be required (visit "Schengen visas").

 

The following family members may also obtain a visa to accompany the student:

• Spouse or civil partner.
• Children who are minors or have a disability.
• Student family member visas do not constitute a work permit.

 

Activities that are eligible for a student visa:

• Full-time studies (at least 20 hours per week) at an accredited school or educational center leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
• Doctoral studies.
• Training activities.
• High school (middle or high school) exchange programs with an accredited school or science center.
• Internships or traineeships in public or private organizations that are not eligible for an internship visa.
• Volunteer services for programs working in areas of general interest and/or general "spouse" programs.
• Teaching assistants (conversation assistants).

 

Documents required to obtain a study visa:

I. Visa Application Form. Each applicant must complete visa application form If the applicant is a minor, a parent or duly authorized representative must sign the application. If the application must be signed by a duly authorized representative, said accreditation can be evidenced by a notarized letter from the applicant or a letter from the applicant's university or school.

II.Photo: A recent passport-sized color photo taken on a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any clothing that hides the applicant's face.

III. A valid and unexpired passport The original and a copy of the biometric data page(s). The passport must be valid for at least the duration of the planned stay and have two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago will not be accepted.

IV.Proof of admission For study, training, volunteer activity or internship.

 

The applicant must provide an original and a copy of the document that proves:

 

• Admission to an accredited school for full-time study
• Admission to a research or training center
• Admission to the student exchange program, including proof of admission to the school, homestay or institutional accommodation, and the organizer's commitment to cover these expenses
• Accepting an unpaid internship (signed contract)
• Admission to a volunteer program (contracting with the volunteer organization)

 

V. Medical certificate : Applicants for a residence visa of more than 180 days must provide the original and a copy of a medical certificate proving that the applicant does not suffer from any diseases that could have serious public health implications, in accordance with the International Health Regulations (IHR) for the year.

This certificate must be issued a maximum of 90 days prior to the visa application, and must be signed by the doctor and include a stamp or letterhead. If issued in English, a Spanish translation is required. The recommended form can be found can be found here. If this form is used, no additional translation is required.

 

VI. Establishing the actor's identity and status: If the applicant is a minor, he/she must provide the identity card or passport of a parent or guardian, as well as a document proving kinship. The originals must be shown at the time of application. If the application is submitted through a proxy, a copy of the representative's ID or passport must be submitted along with the power of attorney or a document certifying the relationship of the proxy, an original and notarized copy of the applicant's birth certificate, showing the relationship between the parents and the child, or the judgment or decision by which the legal guardian was established, to prove kinship; these documents must be issued a maximum of 90 days before the visa application is submitted. Non-Spanish documents must be notarized in The Hague Apostille. Copies of identity documents must be notarized. If the visa application was submitted by mail, the original copies of the identity documents must be shown when the passport is retrieved with the visa.

To obtain the documents required to reside in Spain under the study visa, you must visit the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

 2025 Study Visa Updates

1. The visa application must be submitted at least two months before the study start date.
2. Proof of advance tuition payment is required at the time of application.
3. Health insurance must cover a month before and 15 days after the start of the study, or a full year if the length of stay is more than 180 days.
4. A non-conviction certificate is required if the length of stay exceeds 180 days.

2.Entrepreneur visa (Entrepreneur visa): This visa is intended for foreign businessmen who want to move to Spain to carry out the necessary procedures to carry out investment projects and plans of special economic importance to Spain.

 

The following family members of the entrepreneur can also get the visa:

• Unmarried spouse or partner.
• Children and adults who are financially dependent on the worker and who have not established their own family unit.
• Relatives in the ascending line of the worker's care.

 

Documents required to obtain a business visa (Entrepreneur visa)

I.National Visa Application Form: Each applicant, or their representative, must complete and sign the visa application form, filling out each section.

 

II.Photo: A recent passport-sized color photograph taken against a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any clothing that hides the oval of the face.

 

III.A valid and unexpired passport An original and a photocopy of the page or pages of the passport containing the biometric data. The passport must have a validity period of at least one year and have two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago will not be accepted.

 

IV. A clear and comprehensive report on the project, the original and a copy of the favorable report issued by the corresponding economic and commercial office in this consular district or by the General Directorate of International Trade and Investments.

 

The report must be taken into account:

• In particular, and as a priority, job creation in Spain.
• The applicant's professional profile, his/her professional training and experience, as well as his/her involvement in the project.
• A business plan that includes details of the project, product or service, market analysis, and financing.
• Added value to the Spanish economy, innovation or investment opportunities.

 

V. Financial means Original and copy of documents proving that the entrepreneur has sufficient financial resources of their own, or recognizing that they have a regular source of income, for themselves and, where applicable, for accompanying family members. The minimum required amount is equal to 100% of the IPREM in Spain. To this amount must be added 50% of the IPREM for each family member. Foreign documents must be certified or notarized and, where applicable, must be submitted with an official translation into Spanish.

VI.Proof of residence in the consular district: The applicant must provide proof of legal residency in the consular district (a consular district is the area served by a consular office, where residents can receive consular services and necessary support from the consulate). Or he/she is attending classes in person in the consular district.

 

To obtain the documents required to reside in Spain under a business visa (business residency), please visit Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

 

2025 updates to the Entrepreneur Visa:

1. This type of residency has been included in the new amendments to Spain's 2025 immigration laws, with the aim of streamlining procedures, reducing bureaucracy and clarifying criteria.
2. The required financial resources are based on the 2024 IPREM index, where the applicant must have at least €600 per month, with 50% of this amount added for each accompanying family member.
3. The submission of an officially-approved business plan is now a prerequisite, which must demonstrate the project's expected economic impact, job creation potential, innovation or added value to the Spanish economy.
4. The entrepreneur's family members (spouse or partner, children, and dependent parents) are allowed to apply at the same time within the same application, with easier family bonding and document submission requirements.

3Non-working (non-lucrative) residence visa: This is a visa to reside in Spain without carrying out any profitable activity (business or professional), provided that the applicant has sufficient and secure means of subsistence. This visa does not constitute a work permit.

 

The following family members can also get the visa:

• Unmarried spouse or partner.
• Dependent children and dependent relatives in the ascending line who are part of the family unit.

 

Documents required for non-working (non-lucrative) residency:

I. National Visa Application Form : Each applicant must complete and sign the visa application form, filling out each section.

 

II. Non-Employee Residence Visa Application Form: Each applicant must complete and sign a copy of Form EX-01, filling out each of its sections. Follow the instructions in the file.

 

III. Photo: A recent passport-sized color photograph, taken on a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any clothing that hides the oval of the face.

 

IV.Valid and unexpired passport: The original and a photocopy of the page or pages of the passport containing the biometric data must be submitted. The passport must be valid for at least one year and have two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago are not accepted.

 

V. Health insurance: Health insurance must present an original and a copy of the certificate of approval of public or private health insurance with no co-payment or deductible contracted with an insurance professional authorized to operate in Spain. The insurance policy must be valid for one year and must cover all visa beneficiaries against risks insured by the public health system in Spain. No travel insurance with medical assistance coverage will be accepted.

VI.Criminal Record Check Certificate: Applicants of legal age who are applying for a visa for a stay of more than 180 days must provide the original and a copy of the criminal record check certificate(s) issued by their country or countries of residence within the last five years.

 

To obtain the documents required to reside in Spain under the non-working (non-profitable) residence visa, please visit Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

 

2025 Non-lucrative Residency Updates

1. In 2025, the minimum income required to obtain this residency based on IPREM was adjusted to the equivalent of €2,400 per month per person (equivalent to 400% of the annual IPREM), with €600 per month added for each additional family member.
2. It was emphasized that health insurancemust be offered without any deductibles or cost-sharing clauses, and must include all medical coverage equivalent to the Spanish public health system.
3. This visa is not as valid as in previous years, but there has been an increase in acceptance by foreigners who rely on passive sources of income (such as rent, retirement, or investment returns).

4. Work visa (Employee visa): This is a residence visa for those over the age of 16 who wish to work in Spain (with an employment contract) and covers seasonal work activities.

 

Documents required to obtain a work visa (Employment Residency-Employee visa):

I. National Visa Application Form: Each applicant must complete and sign the visa application, filling out each section. If the applicant is a minor, a parent must sign the application.

 

II.Image: A recent passport-sized color photograph, taken against a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any clothing that hides the oval of the face.

 

III.A valid and unexpired passport: The original and a photocopy of the passport page(s) containing the biometric data must be submitted. The passport must have a validity period of at least 4 months (in the case of a temporary contract, the validity period must cover the duration of the contract) and have two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago will not be accepted.

 

IV. Copy of the work and residence permit (ATORIZACIÓN DE RESIDENCIA Y TRABAJO POR CUENTA AJENA). The visa application must be submitted within one month from the date the employer is notified of the authorization grant.

 

V.Labor contract:: A copy of the labor contract stamped by the Aliens Office. A copy of the employment contract stamped by the Foreigners Office.

 

VI.Medical certificate: Original and copy of a medical certificate proving that the applicant does not suffer from any disease that could cause serious repercussions to public health in accordance with the International Health Regulations 2005. Foreign documents must be certified or notarized and, where applicable, must be submitted with an official translation into Spanish.

 

To obtain the documents required to reside in Spain under a work visa, please visit Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

2025 updates to the Employee Visa

1. In 2025, work visas are prioritized for contracts that show employment in sectors with labor shortages, such as agriculture, healthcare, and technology.
2. A new digital system for submitting and following up on applications has been adopted, as it is necessary to submit the application electronically via the official Spanish government platform, minimizing the need to go to consular offices except in the final stages.
3. The validity period of the visa is more clearly defined: Permanent contracts grant an initial one-year renewable residency, while seasonal contracts grant a temporary residency of up to 9 months.

5Investor visa: This is a residence visa for foreigners who make a significant capital investment subject to the following conditions:

• An initial investment of at least €2 million in Spanish public debt securities, or €1 million in stocks or shares in Spanish companies engaged in active commercial activities, in investment or venture capital funds organized in Spain, or in bank deposits in Spanish financial institutions.
• A commercial or investment project in Spain of public interest, in terms of job creation, socio-economic impact directly on the geographical area where the project will be implemented, or its ability to contribute to practical or technological innovations, in which case the visa can be obtained by a representative appointed by the investor to manage the project.
• Investments made by legal persons are also accepted, provided that the legal person is not based in a tax haven, and the investor owns, directly or indirectly, majority voting rights and the power to appoint or remove a majority of the board of directors.Note: As of April 2025, the provision of obtaining golden residency in Spain by purchasing a property worth €500,000 has been canceled, and this option is no longer available to foreign investors. However, other options are still available to obtain residency, such as investing in government bonds, investment funds, or setting up businesses in Spain.

 

The following family members of the investor can also get the visa:

• Unmarried spouse or partner.
• Children and adults who are financially dependent on the investor and who have not established their own family unit.
•   Relatives in the ascending line of investor sponsorship.

 

Documents required to obtain an investor visa:

I.Submission of the application: Each applicant, or their designated representative, must complete and sign the visa application form, making sure that all sections are duly filled out.

 

II. Photograph: A recent passport-sized color photograph, taken on a light background, with the applicant facing forward, is required. The photo should not include dark or reflective glasses or any clothing that obscures the oval of the face.

 

III. A valid passport: The original and a copy of the passport pages containing the biometric data are required. The passport must be valid for at least one year and have at least two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago will not be accepted.

 

IV.INVESTMENT DOCUMENTS: AN ORIGINAL AND A COPY OF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED:

 

• Investing in stocks and non-traded stocks: Investment declaration registered in the Foreign Investment Registry of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation
• Investing in quoted stocks: A certificate from a financial intermediary registered with the National Securities Market Authority (CNMV) or Banco de España, confirming the investment.
• Investing in public debt: A certificate from a financial institution or Banco de España confirming individual ownership of the investment for at least 5 years.
• Bank deposit: A bank certificate confirming individual ownership of the investment.
• Real estate investment: A certificate from the Land Registry, issued within the last 90 days, with up-to-date information on ownership and mortgages. In addition, a bill of sale is required if the purchase amount is not specified in the certificate of title and mortgages.
• Investing in a business: A favorable report from the competent economic and commercial office of the consular district, stating the public interest served by the business project.
• Investing through a legal entity: A positive report from the competent economic and commercial office confirming that the company is not based in a tax haven. Furthermore, it must be verified that the investor has majority voting rights and the power to appoint or remove a majority of the board of directors.

 

 Note: Foreign documents must be legalized or certified and accompanied by an official Spanish translation where applicable.

 

V. Financial proof: Original and copy of documents confirming sufficient personal financial resources or showing a regular source of income for the investor and accompanying family members, if applicable. The minimum requirement is equivalent to 400% of the IPREM in Spain, with an additional 100% of the IPREM for each family member. Foreign documents must be legalized or certified and accompanied by an official Spanish translation where applicable.

 

To obtain the documents required to reside in Spain under the investor visa, please visit Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

2025 Investor Visa Updates

1. Elimination of the real estate clause: As of April 3, 2025, the option to purchase a €500,000 property as a means of obtaining residency has officially been eliminatedas part of the decision to discontinue the Golden Residency Program in Spain. This type of investment is no longer accepted to obtain a residence permit as an investor.
2. We are tightening controls on the source of funds: Starting in 2025, authorities require extensive details about the source of funds used for investment, with a focus on transparency and anti-money laundering. Detailed bank reports and documents proving the legal legitimacy of the financial source must be provided.
3. Prioritization of productive projects: The investor visa is increasingly prioritized for businesses that show a direct socio-economic impact or create jobs within Spain, especially in areas with a high unemployment rate.

 

6.Telework visa (Telework visa):

It is a residence visa given to foreigners (excluding EU citizens or those to whom EU law applies) who travel to Spain to carry out remote work or professional activity for companies located outside Spanish territory, through the exclusive use of computers, information technology and communication media and systems, subject to certain conditions. basic points such as:

•  In the case of a business activity, the holder of an international remote work license will only be able to work for companies located outside the national territory.
•  In the case of a professional activity, the holder of an international remote work permit is allowed to work for a company located in Spain, as long as the above-mentioned work does not exceed 20% of his/her total professional activity.

 

Eligible professionals can also apply for a visa or permit to work remotely based on being graduates or post-graduates from universities of recognized standing, vocational training and business schools of recognized standing or with at least three years of professional experience.

 

Family members of the remote worker can also obtain the visa under a category:

•  Unmarried spouse or partner.
•  Children and adults who are financially dependent on the remote worker and who have not established their own family unit.
•  Relatives in the ascending line of remote worker care.

 

Foreigners in Spain can apply for a residence permit to work remotely for a company located abroad (up to a maximum of 3 years), without the need for a prior visa.

 

Documents required to obtain a telework visa (Telework visa):

I.Form National Visa Application: Each applicant, or his/her representative, must complete and sign the visa application form, filling out each section.

II. Photograph: A recent passport-sized color photograph, taken against a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any clothing that hides the oval of the face.

 

III. Valid and unexpired passport: Original and complete passport copy (all pages). The passport must be at least one year old and have two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago will not be accepted.

VI.Employment contract: It must reflect that the applicant has an employment contract that lasts for more than 3 months prior to the date of the visa application.

 

• In the case of an employee: A certificate reflecting the worker's seniority in the company, as well as the company's explicit permission for the worker to work remotely.

 

•  In the case of self-employed workers: A certificate stating the duration of the contractual relationship as well as the terms and conditions under which the worker will be practicing the professional activity remotely.

V. Commercial Registration Certificate: (or its equivalent in the UAE) which specifies the date of establishment of the company and the type of activity. It must prove real and continuous activity for at least one year.

 

To obtain the documents required to reside in Spain under the Telework visa, please visit Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

2025 Telework Visa Updates

1. Tighter minimum income requirements: As of 2025, applicants must prove a monthly income of at least €2,600 net per person, or the equivalent of €31,200 peryear, with a 25% increase for each additional family member.
2. Additional cybersecurity requirements: A new requirement has been imposed to provide a declaration or report proving the existence of data and communication protection protocols approved by the external employer, especially if the work involves sensitive data or European customers.
3. The need to prove the stability of the employment relationship: A continuous employment contract or contractual relationship of at least 12 months is now required at the time of application, instead of only 3 months as in previous years.
4. New digital procedures: From the beginning of 2025, applications can be submitted and followed up entirely electronically via a new government digital platform of the Spanish Ministry of Migration, shortening the time for consideration and approval.

 

7Family reunification visa:

It is a visa intended for family members of foreigners who already have a legal residence status in Spain and who would like to exercise their right to family reunification.

Note: This type of visa is not issued to family members who are citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area (EEA) member states or Switzerland.

Here are the family members who can actually get a family reunification visa:

 

•  A spouse who is not physically or legally separated, or a person with whom the applicant maintains a partnership similar to a marital relationship, and cannot apply for reunification for more than one spouse or partner.
• The applicant's children, stepchildren or partner - including adopted children (provided the adoption is valid in Spain) - and those legally represented by the applicant, provided they are under the age of 18 or have disabilities and are not objectively able to provide for their own needs due to their health condition.
• The applicant's parents (mother or father) and the parents of the spouse or partner, provided that they are in the applicant's care, are older than 65 years old and that there are reasons to support the need for their residence permit in Spain. Exceptionally, for humanitarian reasons, the reunification of parents under the age of 65 may be allowed.

 

Documents required for a family reunification visa (family reunification visa):

I.National Visa Application Form: Each applicant must complete and sign the visa application form, filling out each section. If the applicant is a minor, a parent, guardian or duly authorized representative must sign the application.

II.Photo: A recent passport-sized color photograph, taken against a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any clothing that hides the oval of the face.

 

III. Valid and unexpired passport: An original and a photocopy of the page or pages of the passport containing the biometric data. The passport must have a validity period of at least (4 months) and contain two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago will not be accepted.

VI. Initial family reunification authorization Original and copy of the initial family reunification authorization issued by the delegation or sub-delegation of the government in Spain, at the request of the applicant.

V. Applicant's residence card A certified copy of the applicant's foreign identity card, which must be unexpired.

 

To obtain the documents required to reside in Spain under a visa (family reunification visa) please visit Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

2025 Updates to the Family Reunification Visa

1. Raising the minimum period of prior residence for the primary resident: As of 2025, the primary resident must have resided in Spain for at least 12 months (instead of 6 months previously) before applying for family reunification.
2. Increases in income requirements: The income requirement for the primary resident has been raised to include at least 150% of IPREM for the first individual and an additional 50% for each additional family member, aimed at ensuring the financial stability of the family.
3. Introduction of a point system for preferential admission: A new system has been introduced that gives priority consideration to families with minor children, individuals in need of urgent health care, or in the case of documented humanitarian reasons.
4. The application can be submitted electronically: A new web portal has been launched by the Spanish Ministry of Immigration through which a family reunification application can be submitted and followed up electronically without the need for prior attendance at the consulate.

8Researcher visa:

It is a visa that is applied for by foreign individuals who wish to participate in training, research, development and innovation activities in public or private organizations under the following conditions:

 

• The research staff referred to in Article 13 and the first additional article of Law No. 14/2011 of June 1 on science, technology and innovation.
•  Scientific and technical personnel who carry out scientific research, development and technological innovation in commercial divisions or R&D centers located in Spain.
• Researchers who are hosted, under an agreement, by public or private research organizations.
• Faculty members appointed by universities, higher education and research bodies or centers, or business administration departments established in Spain.

 

The following family members of the researcher can also get the visa:

 

• Unmarried spouse or partner.
• Children and adults who are financially dependent on the researcher and who have not established a family unit of their own.
• Relatives in the ascending line are in the care of the researcher.

 

Documents required to obtain a researcher visa(Researcher visa):

I.National Visa Application Form: Each applicant, or their representative, must complete and sign the visa application form, filling out each section. If the applicant is a minor, a parent or duly authorized representative must sign the application.

II.Photo: A recent passport-sized color photograph, taken against a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any clothing that hides the oval of the face.

 

III. Valid passport and not expired: Original and photocopy of the page or pages of the passport containing the biometric data. The passport must be at least one year old and have two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago will not be accepted.

VI.Residence Permit. Original and copy of the residence permit issued by the Major Corporations and Strategic Groups Unit.

V. Criminal Record Check Certificate: Applicants of legal age who are applying for a visa must provide the original and a copy of the criminal record check certificate(s) issued by their country or countries of residence within the last two years. In addition, a responsible declaration of no criminal records for the past five years will be submitted.

 

This certificate cannot be older than 6 months, unless the certificate itself specifies a longer expiration period.

 

These certificates must be legalized through Spanish representations in the country of origin or, in the case of countries that are signatories to the Hague Convention of October 5, 1961, bear the Hague seal, with the exception of official documents issued by a member state of the European Union, which will not require legalization.

A sworn translation into Spanish is also required.

 

And for the documents required to reside in Spain under a visa researcher(Researcher visa)

Please visit Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

2025 Researcher Visa Updates

1. Expanding the categories covered by the visa: As of 2025, research assistants and doctoral students can apply for this visa if they have research contracts with accredited entities within Spain, even if they are not officially classified as researchers according to Law 14/2011.
2. Simplify family members' procedures: The time required to bring in family members has been reduced from 6 months to just 3 months after obtaining the researcher's residency, speeding up the family reunification process.
3. Electronic application: Applicants can now apply through a unified electronic platform that includes uploading documents and tracking the status of the application directly without visiting the consulate, which significantly speeds up the process.
4. Elimination of some European authentication requirements: Official documents from EU countries no longer require legalization or the Hague seal, as long as they are accompanied by an official translation into Spanish if they are not issued in Spanish

 

9Internship visa:

It is a visa applied for by foreign individuals who have obtained a university degree within the last two years or who are pursuing studies leading to a university degree in Spain or abroad, and who are participating in an internship program in Spain (by signing an internship agreement or internship contract) for the purpose of improving their knowledge, skills and experience in a professional environment.

 

If these conditions are not met, the applicant can obtain a study visa to conduct another internship in Spain (please refer to the section "Study visas" section for more information).

 

You can review the study and internship visa FAQ section from here.

 

Documents required for a visa Internship visa:

I.National Visa Application Form: Each applicant, or their representative, must complete and sign the visa application form, filling out each section. If the applicant is a minor, a parent or duly authorized representative must sign the application.

II.Photo: A recent passport-sized color photograph, taken against a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any clothing that hides the oval of the face.

 

III. Valid passport Not expired: Original and photocopy of the page or pages of the passport containing the biometric data, the passport must be at least one year old and have two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago will not be accepted.

VI.Residence and training authorization: Original and copy of the resolution of authorization issued by the delegation or sub-delegation of the government in the province where the training will be conducted.

V. Criminal Record Check Certificate: Applicants of legal age who are applying for a visa must provide the original and a copy of the criminal record check certificate(s) issued by their country or countries of residence within the last two years. In addition, a responsible declaration of no criminal records for the past five years will be submitted.

 

• • This certificate cannot be older than 6 monthsunless the certificate itself specifies a longer expiration period.
  • These certificates must be legalized through Spanish representations in the country of origin, or, in the case of countries that are signatories to the Hague Convention of October 5, 1961, bear the Hague seal, with the exception of official documents issued by a member state of the European Union, which will not need to be legalized.

• A sworn translation into Spanish is also required.

 

To obtain the documents required to reside in Spain under the internship visa, please visit the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

2025 Internship Visa Updates

1. Extending the admissible period after graduation: As of 2025, the period allowed after graduation to apply for a visa has been extended from two to three years, giving graduates more time to apply for internship programs in Spain.
2. Acceptance of digital internship programs: It is now possible to apply for hybrid or partially remote internships, provided the host is in Spain and there is adequate supervisory follow-up.
3. Simplified admission requirements: The requirement for proof of university admission has been eliminated if the applicant is still a student, and an official enrollment certificate from the university or educational institution is sufficient.
4. The pre-training permit has been digitized: The residency and training permit can now be obtained completely digitally through a unified online portal, speeding up procedures and reducing the need for paper documents.

10. Visa for highly qualified workers and for intra-company transfers: 

It is a special work visa for workers who are eligible to work and move within the company and is divided in detail into:

 

•  Visa for highly qualified workers: A visa to carry out a work activity as an employee in Spain as a highly qualified professional, a member of senior management who meets certain criteria stipulated in the prevailing legislation, or as a graduate or postgraduate of a prestigious university and/or business school.

 

• Visa for intra-company transfers: A visa for exercising a work activity as an employee in Spain as a member of senior management, specialist or trainee, for the execution of a contract, or in connection with a professional relationship, when the transfer takes place within the same company or group of companies.

 

The following family members of the worker can also get the visa:

 

•  Unmarried spouse or partner.
• Children and adults who are financially dependent on the worker and who have not established their own family unit.
• Relatives in the ascending line of the worker's care.

 

Documents required to obtain a visa Residency for highly qualified workers and for intra-company transfers:

I.National Visa Application Form: Each applicant, or their representative, must complete and sign the visa application form, filling out each section.

II.Photography: A recent passport-sized color photograph, taken against a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any clothing that hides the oval of the face.

III. Valid and unexpired passport: An original and a photocopy of the page or pages of the passport containing the biometric data. The passport must be at least one year old and have two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago will not be accepted.

VI.Residence permit: Original and copy of the permit issued by the Major Corporations and Strategic Groups Unit.

V. Criminal Record Check Certificate: Applicants of legal age who are applying for a visa must provide the original and a copy of the criminal record check certificate(s) issued by their country or countries of residence within the last two years. In addition, a responsible declaration of no criminal records for the past five years will be submitted.

IV.Proof of residence in the consular district: The applicant must provide proof of legal residency in the consular district (a consular district is the area served by a consular office, where residents can receive consular services and support from the consulate) or that they are attending classes in person in the consular district.

 

To obtain the documents required to reside in Spain under the Visa for highly qualified workers and for intra-company transfers, please visit Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

 

Quick Update 2026 / Frequently Asked Questions About Residency in Spain:

What are the types of residency in Spain?
There are 9 main types of residency in Spain:
1. Student visa
2. Business visa
3. Non-lucrative residency (for financially independent individuals)
4. Contract Work Visa
5. Investor Visa
6. Remote Work Visa
7. Family Reunification Visa
8. Researcher Visa
9. Highly Skilled Worker Visa

How can I obtain permanent residency in Spain?
To obtain permanent residency in Spain
you need to have held legal residency continuously for
5 years. After that, you can apply for permanent residency
by providing proof of stable income, health insurance, and
a clean criminal record. After 10 years, you can
apply for Spanish citizenship.

What is the difference between permanent and temporary residency in Spain?
Temporary residency is granted for a specific period (one year
or two years) and must be renewed; it is tied to a specific condition
such as an employment contract, study program, or investment.
Permanent residency is granted after 5 years and gives you
the right to live and work without restrictions and without the need
for continuous renewal.

How long does it take to obtain residency in Spain?
The processing time for a residency application in Spain ranges
from 1 to 3 months, depending on the type of visa and the consulate.
Remote work and investor visas are usually processed faster,
while non-lucrative residency may take longer
due to the high volume of applications in 2025–2026.

Is it difficult to obtain residency in Spain?
It’s not difficult if you meet the required conditions.
The easiest types are student and work visas
for remote work for those with a steady income. The most difficult is
non-lucrative residency due to the high
monthly income requirement, which will reach €2,400 in 2025.

Spain's New Residency Law?
Spain has made significant changes to its
immigration laws in 2025, including: raising the minimum
income requirement for most types of residency, eliminating the
Golden Visa program for real estate, updating the
online application platform, and tightening the requirements for investors to prove the
source of funds.

 

In conclusion, we have reviewed a variety of the most important types of visas to reside in Spain, explaining the types and conditions of each of them. For more details, please leave your inquiry here Or contact our support team via WhatsApp via the following linkhttps://wa.me/message/747GSLD5K2SPC1

After the cancellation of Spain's golden residency program, the search for strong European alternatives has become even more important. Learn about the most prominent of them in our article about Greece's program:
Golden Residency in Greece - the best alternative after the cancellation of Spain's program