Spain to Extend Job Seeker Visa From 3 to 12 Months in 2025

Charlie Immigration updates 24 November 2024 | Updated On November 26, 2024 | 0

In a significant move aimed at attracting skilled talent, Spain plans to extend the validity of its job seeker visa from three months to a full year.

This change is expected to take effect in 2025, will offer job seekers more time to find employment and establish themselves in Spain, enhancing their chances of securing better opportunities.

The Spain Job Seeker Visa is designed to allow individuals to live in Spain temporarily while actively searching for work. Although the visa does not permit holders to engage in paid employment during its validity, it serves as a pathway to legal residency and work status. Once a job offer is secured, the employing company must facilitate the transition from a job seeker visa to a work visa.

This visa falls under the category of non-lucrative residence permits, which means that holders are not authorised to work until their employment status is formalised. However, the extended validity period promises to alleviate the pressure on job seekers, giving them ample time to explore opportunities across Spain's diverse job market.

The visa extension aligns with broader immigration reforms to address Spain's labour shortages. The Spanish government plans to regularise 300,000 undocumented migrants annually through 2027, granting residence and work permits to nearly 900,000 individuals over three years.

Elma Saiz, Spain’s Minister of Migration, described the reforms as “opening doors that were previously closed” through a three-pronged strategy of formation, employment, and family integration. Unlike policies focused on recruiting foreign workers, this initiative prioritises integrating undocumented migrants already residing in Spain, reflecting the government’s commitment to sustainable labour market solutions.

Why These Changes Matter

Spain's economy currently faces a shortfall of approximately 250,000 workers, particularly in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and hospitality. By extending the job seeker visa and facilitating pathways for undocumented migrants to contribute to the economy, the country hopes to meet its labour needs while fostering social cohesion.

The extended visa validity will also make Spain more competitive among European nations in attracting global talent. For aspiring professionals and migrants, these changes signal a welcoming environment with greater opportunities for career growth and legal integration.

As Spain takes bold steps to address its labour challenges, both job seekers and undocumented migrants stand to benefit from policies that promote inclusion and economic resilience.

Do you have plans to work in Spain? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

Check out the deals we have found below and tell us your travel plans.

Check out the offers and discounts from:

And because of the pandemic, don’t forget to get your travel insurance, which will cover you for flight disruptions and pandemic related matters.

IaM can help with your visa application to Europe, the United States, the UK & other countries

If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.

Some of our posts include affiliate links. If you choose to purchase any of these products, we might get a small commission. For more information, check out our TOS.