The cancellation of the Golden Visa in Spain has changed the landscape of international mobility, but there are still options to attract foreign talent to the country. With the right strategies, companies can continue hiring international professionals and benefit from the arrival of highly skilled workers.
In this article, we explore how companies can continue hiring foreign talent in Spain after the elimination of the Golden Visa and how Orience can facilitate this process.
How Does the Cancellation of the Golden Visa Affect International Hiring?
The Golden Visa allowed investors and entrepreneurs to obtain residency in Spain through real estate purchases or other investments. Its elimination has necessitated other avenues to attract international talent, such as visas for highly qualified professionals, digital nomads, and intra-company transfers.
Available Options for Hiring Foreign Talent in Spain
1. Visa for Highly Qualified Professionals
This visa is ideal for companies needing to hire professionals with experience in key sectors such as technology, engineering, or finance. The Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit (UGE-CE) manages these permits and provides fast-track resolutions.
2. Digital Nomad Visa
For foreign workers who can perform their duties remotely, the digital nomad visa in Spain is an attractive alternative. It allows international professionals to reside in Spain while working for foreign companies.
3. Intra-Company Transfer
Multinational companies can transfer employees from other locations using the intra-company transfer permit, facilitating talent mobility without requiring an additional hiring process.
4. Work Permit for Salaried Employees
Companies can apply for a work permit to hire foreign employees, provided they demonstrate the need for hiring and the lack of similar profiles in Spain.
5. Residence for Entrepreneurs
Spain offers a special residence permit for entrepreneurs who wish to develop innovative businesses in the country. This visa is an ideal option for startups and expanding companies.
Steps to Hire Foreign Talent in Spain
1. Identify the Best Hiring Path
Depending on the candidate’s profile and company needs, the most suitable visa type should be chosen.
2. Prepare Documentation
Key documents include the employment contract, company accreditation, and worker certifications.
3. Submit the Application
Procedures are carried out before the UGE-CE or corresponding immigration offices, with processing times ranging from 20 to 60 days.
4. Approval and Permit Issuance
Once the visa is approved, the worker can apply for a residence card in Spain.
5. Employee Integration and Adaptation
Orience provides post-hiring advisory services, including housing search, tax advisory, and administrative procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does the cancellation of the Golden Visa affect those who already have it?
No, holders of a Golden Visa will continue to retain their permits and will be able to renew them according to the current regulations.
2. What happens if a company needs to hire a foreign worker without a university degree?
If the worker is not highly qualified, a traditional work permit can be requested, provided that the hiring is justified.
3. How long does it take to approve a visa for qualified professionals?
The process can take between 20 and 45 days, depending on the administrative workload and the documentation provided.
4. Can a company hire a foreign worker who is already residing in Spain?
Yes, as long as they have a legal migration status and meet the requirements for the corresponding work permit.
5. Can a work permit be renewed without leaving Spain?
Yes, renewals can be processed within the country if the established criteria set by the immigration authorities are met.