Employment in Spain

If you plan to work in Spain it’s a good idea to have some savings in case you can’t find a job immediately.  You should also be prepared to take any kind of job at first, which may lead to other things as you make contacts.  You may have to take a seasonal job at first until you find something more permanent.

Most employers won’t consider you unless you speak a relatively good level of Spanish.  The good thing is once you get a job for a Spanish employer your language skills will improve tremendously.  The alternative is to look for work with an English speaking business. 

If you’re searching for employment buy the local papers, look in shop windows for advertisements and most importantly network.  Some of the best jobs are found by word of mouth.  Tell everyone you come into contact with that you’re looking for work and what your skills are.

Don’t expect to earn the same salary as you did in your native country as pay here is less.  But this is counteracted by the cheaper cost of living. 

Working hours in Spain are likely to be different to what you’re used to and are often longer.  You may start early in the morning, have a two or three hour break in the middle of the day and return to work late in the afternoon and work during the evening.  You’ll soon get used to this routine, which is actually better as during the heat of the summer, unless you’re in an air conditioned office working during the heat of the day is virtually impossible.  You could also be working six days a week.

If you’re intending to become self-employed or set up a business do your research first.  Many people just arrive in Spain expecting to run bar or bed and breakfast, open a shop or estate agency, without looking at the needs of the market.  The successful people are those that see a niche for what they can offer, are confident they can do it well and know how to promote their business.

If you’re realistic, know what your skills are and are prepared to work hard you will find work.  Take a look at our employment ideas section to help you decide what work you could do.       

Click on the topics below for more information:

Finding a job in Spain

Employment Ideas

Self- Employment

Setting up a business

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