Working in Spain
The best cost-of-living-to-salary trade on the board for mid-level roles. The Startups Law route processes highly qualified hires in about 20 working days and the Beckham tax regime can cap tax at 24% for six years.
General career-planning information only, not immigration, legal, tax or financial advice. Figures and pathways are indicative and may not apply to you. Confirm current rules and personal eligibility with official authorities or an independent qualified adviser.
Primary visa route
Highly Qualified Professional permit
Potential residence pathway
Potential permanent residence route after 5 years
Typical salary band
EUR 40,000 - 70,000
Rent, one bed city centre
GBP 1,100/mo
Effective tax
About 30%, Beckham law option at 24% flat
Healthcare
Public system once registered with social security
Job market notes
- Startups Law applications are handled by the UGE unit, not the local office.
- Employer needs to justify the qualification and salary level.
- Spanish is expected outside international tech and shared service centres.
Living there
- Monthly living cost, one person
- GBP 1,200
- Rent, one bed city centre
- GBP 1,100
- English at work
- Moderate
- Family rights
- Family included in the same application
Main hiring cities
Madrid · Barcelona · Valencia · Malaga · Seville