Job search visa
The Spain job seeker residence permit (post-study): up to 24 months to find work, 100% IPREM funds, form EX-26. Requirements, steps and how to switch to a work permit.
📋 No employment while searching. Once you file the change to a residence-and-work permit, with a contract matching your qualification, you can start working from the moment you file (art. 77 RD 1155/2024).
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Proceso paso a paso
✅ Alternativa: solicitarlo desde España
Condición: Having completed long-term studies in Spain and obtained a level-6 (university degree) qualification.
Errores que llevan a la denegación
⚠️ Confusing it with the Non-Lucrative Visa
Consecuencia: Preparing the wrong financial requirements
Solución: The Non-Lucrative Visa requires ~400% of IPREM and does NOT allow you to work. This authorisation requires only 100% of IPREM and is meant for job-seeking and then working.
⚠️ Thinking there is a general "come to Spain to job-hunt" visa
Consecuencia: Applying for something that does not exist
Solución: This authorisation is only for people who finished long-term studies in Spain. If you did not study here, the routes are others: a work visa from your home country, arraigo, etc.
⚠️ Trying to apply at a Spanish consulate
Consecuencia: Wrong channel
Solución: It is not a consular visa: you apply in Spain, online via Mercurio, to the Delegación/Subdelegación del Gobierno.
⚠️ Thinking it lasts 12 months
Consecuencia: Planning your job search poorly
Solución: The authorisation lasts 24 months, non-renewable (not 12).
⚠️ Starting work before filing the change to a work permit
Consecuencia: A breach that can invalidate the permit
Solución: Do not work until you file the change to a residence-and-work permit. From that filing (with a matching contract) you may already work.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Spain job seeker visa?
Up to 24 months, non-renewable.
How do I apply / is there an official website?
Online via the Mercurio e-office with form EX-26, addressed to the Delegación/Subdelegación del Gobierno. Official info: Ministerio de Inclusión, Hoja 20.
Can I work with it?
Not while searching. Once you file the switch to a work permit you can work from the moment you file.
How much money do I need?
100% of IPREM (~€600/month), or 50% if you prove pre-paid accommodation.
Do I need a job offer to apply?
No.
Who qualifies?
People who completed a long-term student stay in Spain with a level-6 (university degree) qualification.
Fuentes oficiales
Última actualización: 2026-07-07