Can foreign students work in Spain?

The influx of foreign students to Spain has increased in recent years, raising the question: can they work in the country while they study? Below, we explain the conditions and regulations governing this situation according to Spanish Immigration Law.

1. Types of work permits for students

Foreign students in Spain can work under certain conditions. There are two types of permits they can apply for:

1.1. Part-time work

Students who have a student visa or a foreign identity card (TIE) allowing them to reside in Spain can work up to a maximum of 20 hours per week. This work must be compatible with their studies and should not interfere with their academic performance.

1.2. Academic internships

In addition to part-time work, students can undertake academic internships. These internships may be paid or unpaid and must be part of their study plan. It is important that they are regulated by an agreement between the university and the company where the internship takes place.

2. Requirements to work as a student

To be able to work in Spain, foreign students must meet certain requirements:

Residence permit: They must have a student visa or a TIE that allows them to reside legally in the country.
Enrollment in an educational institution: They must be enrolled in a course, whether it is a university, vocational training, or language studies.
Schedule compatibility: The work should not interfere with their academic schedule.

3. Process to obtain a work permit

The process for obtaining a work permit as a student includes the following steps:

Request for the TIE: If the student does not have one, they must apply for it at the Foreigners' Office or the corresponding police station.
Required documentation: Submit documents that prove their academic situation and class schedule.
Wait for the decision: Once the application is submitted, they must wait for the approval of the work permit.

4. Consequences of failing to comply with regulations

It is crucial for students to adhere to the established regulations. Working without the proper permit can lead to penalties, which include losing resident status, fines, or even expulsion from the country.

Conclusions

Foreign students in Spain can work, but under certain conditions and with a specific permit. It is essential that they understand their rights and obligations to avoid legal issues. If you find yourself in this situation, be sure to meet all the necessary requirements.

Written by:
Javier Dominguez
Expert immigration lawyer
Publication date: June 2, 2026

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