Finding a job in Spain isn’t easy and it depends what your skills are.  It’s a good idea to have a job lined up before you arrive or you may find you’re living off your savings.  Don’t expect to earn the same level of salary as you did in your home country, and many people have two or three jobs to make ends meet.

But if you are lucky enough to find employment you will be entitled to the same rights as Spanish workers.  Working in a Spanish environment will also do wonders for your language skills.  Unless you’re applying for a job where English or your native language is the required language you’ll be expected to speak, read and understand fluent Spanish.

If you’re looking for temporary or seasonal work in one of the tourist areas it’s less likely you’ll need to speak Spanish, but you should still have an understanding of the Spanish employment system.

Before you start applying for jobs consider the following:

• What are my skills?
• Is there a need for my skills in the area where I’m going to live?
• What are my qualifications?
• Am I prepared to do unskilled work at first?
• How good is my Spanish?

You’re more likely to find work in the larger towns and cities than in the small rural areas.

When applying for a job you’ll need to ensure your qualifications are recognised in Spain.  To gain official approval for your qualifications you’ll need to apply for a homologación at the Ministry of Education and Science (Ministerio de educación y ciencias).  This process can take anywhere between 6-18 months, depending on the level of qualification.

Where to Look for Jobs

National newspapers – these advertise a variety of managerial jobs throughout Spain.

Local newspapers – for local jobs look in both the Spanish and English or German local press.

Websites – there are many websites advertising jobs in Spain.  The newspapers also advertise jobs on their websites.

Notice boards – look at notice boards in shops and bars to see who’s offering employment.  Manual work can often be found this way.

Employment office – the local employment office will advertise local jobs for Spanish speakers.

Recruitment agencies – recruitment agencies in the larger towns and cities offer general or specialised employment.  This is also a good way to find temporary work.

Applying on spec – this can be done by either writing or approaching companies in person.  For manual work such as construction or bar or restaurant work you may be lucky and be in the right place at the right time when asking if there are any jobs available.  For more formal office work it’s better to send a letter and your CV to the manager or personnel manager (try and find out their name to make your application more personal).

Networking – often the best way to find a job.  Talk to people; tell them you’re looking for work and what you can do.  Don’t be shy – promote yourself.  Tell everyone you come into contact with that you’re looking for work.