Last updated 20 August 2026, 00:00 (UTC+0)
Work visa D, TRA in Spain for U.S. citizens
Residence and employment visa
Work visa — what you need to know
Visa for people aged 16 and over who wish to work in Spain as employees with a work contract. The visa application must be submitted within one month from the notification to the employer of the authorization grant.
The employer in Spain initiates the permit application; the visa is applied for after approval
A signed employment contract is required
The initial permit is issued for up to 1 year
After entry, registration with the Spanish Social Security system and obtaining a TIE are required
A single permit authorises both residence and employment
Additional self-employment is permitted
Family reunification is possible after 1 year
Family members are granted the right to work
Eligible individuals:
- Employee
How does this visa work?
Don’t postpone the application
The visa is processed from 1 month to 2 months. Many people contact us 3–5 days before their trip, so start the process in advance
How can you prove the basis for the visa?
They clarify the purpose of the visit and future activities in the country
What must be prepared?
Basic package — always required, regardless of the application conditions
What additional documents may be required?
Documents required vary depending on individual circumstances, specific visa conditions, the place, and the method of application.
*Foreign official documents must be apostilled and legalized in accordance with the regulations of the country whose consular or diplomatic mission they are being submitted to. Additionally, they must be accompanied by a certified translation into the official language of that country or into English, unless otherwise specified by the mission's requirements.
**Prior to submitting the documents, it is strongly advised to verify the specific procedures and requirements with the relevant mission.
Are you eligible for this visa?
Clear purposes of the visit and documents confirming them, in accordance with the visa conditions.
Sufficient means to support oneself and their dependents for the duration of their stay in the country.
The applicant does not pose a threat to public order, internal security, public health or international relations of the country.
Insurance policy for the entire period of stay, meeting the minimum mandatory or recommended requirements for the country.
Valid permanent resident status or proof thereof; all preliminary procedures for visa application have been completed.
Official visa information
English international
Category code
D
Type of visa
National visa
Category
Work visas