How to get a residence permit for internship visa in Spain

It will be necessary to obtain a Residence Authorisation for Internships in Spain for foreign students who wish to carry out professional internships in Spanish companies or institutions.

Here are answers to some common questions about how to obtain this authorisation:

1. What is the Residence Permit for Internship visa in Spain?

This authorisation allows you to reside in Spain and participate in an internship programme by signing an internship agreement or internship work contract with the aim of broadening your knowledge in a professional environment.

Traineeships can be either non-labour (through a traineeship agreement) or labour (through a traineeship contract or a training contract for professional practice).

2. Who may apply for this authorisation?

Foreign students enrolled in recognised educational institutions in Spain or abroad who require an internship as part of their SUPERIOR studies programme may apply for this authorisation.

The Law describes higher education: “university education, higher artistic education, higher vocational training, higher professional education in plastic arts and design and higher sports education“.

3. What are the requirements to obtain the Residence Permit for Internships?

The requirements may vary depending on the specific situation, but in general, applicants must have an internship offer from a company or institution in Spain and, in addition:

• Be enrolled in a study programme or hold a degree obtained, at the latest, within the two years prior to the date of application for authorisation.
• Have a traineeship agreement (for those who are still students) or a traineeship contract (for those who have already obtained their degree within a period of less than two years).
• No criminal record
• Have medical insurance and demonstrate sufficient financial means for their stay in Spain.

4. How much financial means do I have to prove?

Sufficient financial resources must be available to cover the costs of stay and return to the country of origin, as well as those of family members, if any. These resources must meet the following amounts:

For maintenance, the equivalent of 100% of the IPREM is required on a monthly basis, unless it can be demonstrated that accommodation has been previously paid for, in which case it will be 50% of the IPREM, for the whole period of residence. Check out our blog to find out more about the IPREM!

Resources may be justified by own resources or those of a relative, in which case the relationship must be proven.

5. How to apply for the authorisation.

The application is made to the Immigration Office of the place where the internship will take place. It is important to fill in the application form correctly and submit all the required documentation, which may include the internship contract/agreement, proof of studies issued by the educational institution (in case the intern is still a student), health insurance and proof of financial means.

6. How long does it take to process the application?

The deadline for a decision is 30 working days, although depending on the immigration office this period may be extended. In any case, the silence of the administration in this case is POSITIVE.

7. What is the duration of the residence permit for traineeships?

The duration of the residence permit for traineeships is linked to the duration of the internship programme specified in the contract, with a maximum of TWO years.

8. Can I work full time during my internship?

Holders of the residence permit for traineeships may work full time within the framework of the traineeship established in the contract and approved by the relevant authorities.

9. Can I renew my residence permit for work experience?

The initial residence permit may be granted for a maximum period of ONE YEAR and may be renewed for another year, provided that the requirements are met and the need to continue the internship is justified.

Ready to start your internship in Spain? Contact our Immigration Services Spain team to manage your residence permit!