We at Idealspain.com found that the Spanish work force generally accepted foreigners into the community and worked alongside them in harmony. Spanish workers have learned to cope with the heat, you on the other hand may struggle. In Spain, workers are heavily protected from exploitation and contracts are very strict and adhered to. Permits to work as self-employed can be obtained from the local council. You will also have to register for tax and National Insurance. You will also need to prove employers liability insurance if you intend to employ people. Penalties for non-compliance are high.

If you take a job in Spain, make sure you get an official work contract from your employer. Read it carefully and/or have it translated. Remember that you can be given a temporary contract that only lasts 3/6/9 months. After these contracts, an employer has to give you a long-term contract in order to keep you on. He cannot therefore continue giving you short-term contracts. Don't be tempted to take cash work for if you are caught you will be sent home. Anyone caught employing people without a contract will be fined immediately.

Many people come to Spain to set up their own business. This can be a complicated process and there are many pitfalls. One option that is very popular is to buy a bar in Spain. Thousands have already done just this and the flood of people continues.

If you are dismissed from your job in Spain and you do not agree with the reasons, you can present a demand for conciliation within 20 days of receiving your dismissal letter. This is a prejudicial process and counts on there being agreement between the two parties as there is no presentation of evidence. If agreement cannot be reached then you must place a suit in the Labour Court. The worker has 20 days to present the demand in writing to the Labour Court (juzgado de lo Social). The court will find the dismissal either just or unjust and if the latter be granted, the worker will receive 45 days compensation for every year worked. If you are still not satisfied you have five days to file recourse.

If you arrive in Spain, along the coast, looking for work, be prepared for seasonal work. Between May and September the coastal workforce swells with many opportunities in bars, clubs and restaurants. The coastal areas of Spain are currently enjoying a continued boom in the construction industry which offers many positions for everything from bricklayers to planners. New hotels, houses and apartments are springing up at an alarming rate.

There are also job opportunities for bi-lingual teachers of English at all levels. Have a look at our Idealspain section on schools for a few ideas.

Another popular area to work in is working in service for wealthy families in Spain, especially if you have experience in house-keeping, cooking, maintenance or driving. The local Spanish and English press often carry classified advertisements. The internet is also a good source of information. Be aware though that the wages can be very low and the hours can be very long. There are many foreigners arriving in Spain, looking for this type of work and needs dictate that they will settle for very little. Some wealthy people will take advantage of this so while this kind of job may look appealing, be wary.

To work in Spain you must have an NIE Nº. Download the form from this page.