Employees may wish to seek legal advice before signing any contract for work

Finding work in Spain

There is a high level of unemployment in Spain, and it is often difficult for foreigners to find work. There is often temporary and seasonal work available e.g. in bars, mainly in holiday areas. Work can also be found as an English teacher in one of the many language schools, although the better jobs will go to those with a qualification such as TEFL. A good knowledge of Spanish is normally essential for most long-term jobs.

Job centres in the UK have details of vacancies throughout the EU, supplied to them through the EURES network, which supports free movement of workers within Europe. As well as UK job centres, EURES can be contacted through job centres (oficinas de empleo) in Spain. Tel: +44 (0) 114 259 6190.

Employees may wish to seek legal advice before signing any contract for work. Companies with over fifty employees will normally have a trade union representative who can advise on basic rights and recommend a labour lawyer. Those looking for work are expected to support themselves while doing so. Unemployment benefit may be transferable to Spain for a limited period. Spanish benefits are not usually payable to non-Spanish nationals. Further information: INEM (National Employment Office, c/ Espartinas 10. 28001 Madrid. Tel: +34 91 576 89 02)

Self-employment

Those who take up self-employment will need to apply for the necessary documentation. Information is available from PYME (the office for smalland medium enterprises). The Ventanilla Única which helps those wishing to set up business may be helpful. Prospective self-employees can also ask for the Enterprise Creation Support Service (Servicio de Apoyo a la Creación de Empresas) at their nearest INEM (Job Centre).

The British Consulate-General in Madrid and the British Consulates in other cities are not equipped to provide an employment service and cannot reply to enquiries about openings for employment, enter into detailed correspondence or make arrangements in connection with paid or unpaid work. Nor can they intervene in disputes over employment, contracts etc.

PYME
C/ Castelló 117. 28006 Madrid
Tel: 900 190 092

INEM
C/ Espartinas 10. 28001 Madrid.
Tel: +34 91 576 89 02