Spain now offers a 12-month job seeker visa, but applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria to qualify.

Unlike Portugal’s job seeker visa, which lasts 120 days with a 60-day extension, Spain’s visa is valid for up to 12 months, offering greater flexibility for applicants.

To be eligible, applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Hold a degree from a Spanish university

• Be the child or grandchild of a Spanish citizen

• Work in a profession currently in demand in Spain

They must also:

• Prove financial self-sufficiency with a minimum of €600/month (€7,200/year)

• Hold valid health insurance

• Have no criminal record in Spain or previous countries of residence

• Apply within 90 days after their study permit expires (if applicable)

Once employment is secured, the visa can be converted into a work permit, granting access to Spain’s Social Security and Tax Authority systems.

The visa also enables entrepreneurial migrants to launch a business in Spain.

Portuguese citizens can freely enter Spain without a visa due to EU mobility rights.

These changes are part of Spain’s broader immigration reform introduced on May 20, 2025, aimed at simplifying entry and legalising the stay of around 300,000 migrants annually.