New rules: Foreign workers can now legally work in Spain for under 90 days
Employers can sponsor foreign talent for brief assignments legally
DUBAI: Spain has introduced a game-changing update for international professionals.
Foreign workers can now legally take up assignments in Spain lasting fewer than 90 days under specific high-skilled permit categories. This follows a significant amendment to Spain’s Entrepreneurs Law (Law 14/2013), which previously allowed such permits only for stays exceeding 90 days.
The update streamlines how professionals, researchers, and digital nomads access Spain’s labour market – especially for short projects.
Eligible permit types
The short-term flexibility now applies to several fast-track permits under the Entrepreneurs Law, including:
- EU Blue Card
- Highly Qualified Professional
- Researcher
- Intra-Company Transfer
- Digital Nomad
These permits are designed for foreign talent working in Spain’s innovation, research, and tech sectors. Previously, short-duration projects required navigating the Schengen visa system, which doesn't allow legal employment. Now, short work stints can be authorised directly through these visa categories.
Who benefits most
Foreign professionals undertaking brief assignments – such as a one-month consultancy, a two-week academic collaboration, or a short-term remote work project – can now align their legal status with the actual length of their stay. Employers can legally bring in specialists without committing to lengthy permit processes, and workers benefit from formal legal protections, tax clarity, and proper authorisation.
Students, freelancers, and seasonal workers may also gain indirect benefits through clearer distinctions between work and tourist status, depending on their specific visa paths.
What stays the same
While the changes open new doors, core eligibility rules still apply. Applicants must meet the full criteria tied to each permit type, including education level, job offer requirements, and salary thresholds. Documentation standards remain unchanged.
Importantly, the rule does not affect permits issued under Spain’s General Regime, which continues to require a minimum 90-day stay. This includes general work visas, family reunification, and non-lucrative visas.
Spain’s dual track system
Spain’s immigration operates under two distinct regimes:
- General Regime: Traditional, slower, and applies to most foreign workers.
- Entrepreneurs Law: A streamlined, flexible route meant for high-skill professionals, foreign investors, and digital nomads.
The latest reform applies exclusively to the latter. It complements recent initiatives such as Spain’s Startup Law and digital nomad visa, which aim to attract global talent and position Spain as a hub for innovation.