There are several legal ways to change the residence permit for studies for the work residence in Spain:

• Work permit for self-employed.
• Authorization of residence for job search.
• Residence permit for internships.

Residence permit for employed persons

The residence permit for employed persons can be applied for by students who have reached Level 6, i.e. a university degree, master’s degree or doctorate. To obtain it, the following requirements must be met:

• To have completed the studies at the time of submitting the application.
• Proof that the previous study stay has been for three years.
• Demonstrate that you have sufficient financial means for their stay in Spain.
• Not having received any type of subsidy or scholarship from public or private organizations that are part of cooperation or development programs, either Spanish or from the country of origin.
• To have a job offer.

The residence permit for employed work can only be requested if the Spanish labor market does not have professional profiles like the applicant’s, or if there is a shortage of personnel in the area of work.

 Self-employed residence permit

If the student has the possibility of starting his/her own business, he/she may apply for a self-employed residence permit.

In this case, he/she must provide a business plan, proof of investment and the financial means necessary to carry out the plan. As in the case of a change to an authorization to work as an employee, you must prove that you have been in Spain for at least three years as holder of a residence permit for studies, have not been subsidized and have satisfactorily completed the study plan.

The residence and self-employment authorization will be valid for one year, which must be renewed once it is close to expiration.

Authorization of residence for the search of employment

The main difference between the Residence Authorization for Job Search and the other two options is that it does not require a previous time as a student in Spain to apply for it. That is why it is one of the most attractive ways to change the residence permit for studies for the work residence.

This authorization is granted to look for work, but it does not allow you to work. That is to say, it allows one to look for work in a legal way, but at the moment in which the applicant finds the offer that adjusts to his profile he will have to process the corresponding permission. This can be either self-employed or employed, or as a highly qualified worker.

Residence permit for internships

The Residence permit for internships can be applied for by any student who has obtained a higher education degree in the two years prior to the application, or a student who is carrying out his or her academic program both in Spain and abroad.

Are you a student and want to apply for a work residence permit in Spain? If you are not sure which option suits you best, schedule an appointment with us. At Duguech&Dip we provide you with the legal advice you need.

This information does not constitute under any circumstances legal advice, serving only for informational purposes. In case you need professional services in Global Immigration and Mobility, please contact us.

* It should be taken into account that the regulations of any of the countries analyzed, as well as the established procedures, may change at any time and without prior notice.

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