Job Search Residence Permit

Everything You Need to Know to Live in Spain

What is the Job Search Residence Permit in Spain?

The job search residence permit in Spain allows non-EU graduates from Spanish higher education institutions to legally stay in the country for up to 24 months to find a job or start a business.

This permit offers an opportunity for international students to transition from student status to professional life in Spain without needing a job offer immediately after graduation.

Job Search Residence Permit: Table of Contents

What are the benefits

Benefits of the Residence Permit for Job Search in Spain

Legal stay in Spain

Legal stay in Spain for up to 24 months after completing your studies.

Time to find a job

Time to find a job without leaving Spain.

Option to start a business

Option to start a business and transition into a work or entrepreneur residence permit.

Pathway to work residency

Pathway to work residency if you secure a qualified job or create a viable business.

Family members

Family members can stay in Spain if they were already accompanying the applicant during their student stay.

Job Search Residence Permit

Key Considerations Before Applying

  • This permit does not authorize work: You must obtain a separate work permit once you find a job.
  • Strict application deadlines: You must apply between 60 days before and 90 days after your student residence expires.
  • Recognized universities only: Your degree must be from an institution listed in the Spanish Registry of Universities, Centers, and Degrees.

What are the process

Application Process Process to Obtain the Job Search Residence Permit

1. Prepare your documents

Gather all the required paperwork.

2. Submit your application online

This must be done via the Extranjería Mercurio platform, addressed to the Delegation or Subdelegation of the Government in your province of residence.

3. Pay the administrative fee

You must pay the Modelo 790 code 052.

4. Application processing

A resolution is issued within 20 business days.

5. Obtaining a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE)

If approved, you must request your TIE card within one month.

What are the requirements

Eligibility Requirements for the Job Search Residence Permit

Important: Foreign documents must be translated into Spanish by a sworn translator and legalized or apostilled under The Hague Convention.

Hold a valid student residence permit

You must have a valid student residence permit in Spain at the time of application.

Completed a university degree

Your qualification must be at least Level 6 under the European Qualifications Framework, such as a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD.

No criminal record

You must have no criminal record in Spain or any previous countries of residence.

Valid health insurance

You must have public or private medical insurance that is valid in Spain.

Medical certificate

In specific cases

Sufficient financial means

You need to prove that you have enough financial resources to support yourself in Spain (100% of the IPREM monthly).

Not in an irregular situation

You must not be in Spain illegally at the time of application.

Passport

Valid passport (with at least 12 months of validity)

Application form

EX-01 application form, completed and signed

Payment of administrative fee

Fee 790 Code 052

Make It Easy with Us!

At Fuster & Associates, we take care of all the paperwork, making it easy for you to obtain your Job Search Residence Permit in Spain. Our team of experts will guide you step by step, ensuring a smooth, fast, and error-free process so you can focus on your future.

✉️ Contact us today and start living your new life in Spain with all the legal peace of mind you need.

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

It is valid for up to 24 months, with no possibility of extension.

No. The residence permit for job search in Spain does not authorize employment. If you secure a job, you must apply for a work permit.

Yes. If you find a job related to your field of study, you can apply for a work and residence permit. There are two main options:

  • Work permit as an employee: Your employer will process the work authorization.
  • Self-employed work permit: If you start a business, you must submit a business plan.

Yes, but for the Entrepreneur Visa, your business must be innovative and scalable, meeting the Entrepreneurs Law requirements.

You must either leave Spain or apply for another type of residence permit if eligible.

Yes, but you must comply with entry requirements and ensure your permit is still valid when you return.

It takes 20 business days to receive a decision. If no response is given within this period, the application is considered approved by positive administrative silence

If you submit the application after the allowed period, you may face penalties or rejection.

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