The Basis for Working to Barcelona
If you come to visit the capital of Catalonia, we will help you to find the best apartments for long term in barcelona. We offer apartments of different types, renovated and well furnished in all areas of Barcelona!
It goes without saying that if you want the most options for working in Barcelona, then almost always you will need to know Spanish. You will definitely impress potential employers here if you know Catalan too (the official language of Catalonia of which Barcelona is the capital), although a smaller percentage of jobs have this as a requirement... Luckily, native English is also constantly in demand because many locals do not speak it so well. You should learn Spanish first, but if you plan on sticking around in Barcelona then you should really think about Catalan too as the skill can help your career here.
Normally, the time of year with the most labour demand in Barcelona are the months of September and October, as well as January and February. It is important to take advantage and apply for work during these heavy periods if you can.
Required documents to work in Spain
To work in Barcelona, it is essential to note that companies need your Social Security Number so you can contribute and gain access to medical care. To achieve this, it will not be easy as you will first need a NIE (Numero de Identificacion de Extranjero / Foreigner Identification Number), a document that must be obtained at the "Oficina de Extranjeros" or "Foreigner's Office ".
With a NIE you can technically go to a social security office and apply for your number, but it's also highly recommended that you register to be included on the Municipal Census on which all official citizens are listed. The process is enumeration, or as the Spanish call it; "Empadronamiento". Once you have your NIE and your Certificate of Enumeration, you're all legally set for pretty much anything, from Social Security to getting a library card.
Excursions in Barcelona
To make the most of Barcelona and fill your trip with unforgettable experiences and emotions, we offer you the excursions through the Catalan capital organized by our friends - the GetYourGuide team. Choose your excursion and fall in love with Barcelona:
How to Start your Search for Employment
1. Job Seeking Websites
Various website exist with jobs available in Barcelona. Including:
2. Social Networks
Today, social networks form an integral part of life. You can even find work on them.
- Facebook - Look in local groups like "Barcelona Expats". There are job listings to be found
- Viadeo
3. Public bodies
Each country has their own public bodies in Barcelona that can help you find work here. Help like giving a look over your CV and contacts with certain businesses.
- EURES
- International Employment offices
- Employment public services
- Chambers of commerce in Barcelona depending on your country of origin.
4. Local Press
One way to find a job in Barcelona that doesn't take much time is to check the newspapers like El Periódico de Catalunya, El Mundo, La Vanguardia, ABC, or El País, all of which regularly have employment offers. They are sold at any street kiosk. El Periódico has lots of job offers, especially on Sundays.
5. Call-centres
There are many globalised businesses that have call-centres in Barcelona, which generally seek natives of the most widely spoken European languages - French, Spanish, Italian, German, and English.
6. Hospitality industry
During the summer, businesses in the hospitality sector such as restaurants, bars, and accommodation, often search for new employees. Knowing English fluently is a big deal for these companies alongside Spanish and the following websites will help:
7. Housekeeping, au pair, and babysitting jobs
One way that's popular to get started in Barcelona is to take on a babysitting or housekeeping type job. Many parents here want their children to master English, so being fluent can really help you out. Sometimes you will find room and board included in addition to a salary. You can find these kinds of jobs on social media, through word of mouth, or posted in the streets. Always get a signed contract when you take on any kind of work.
Do not underestimate the chance to submit your CV in person to one or more companies at which you want to work.
Last, but not least, try to expand your connections and friends as much as possible. This may result in the possibility that one your contacts is aware of an open position where they work and will recommend you! At the same time always maintain your CV up to date, if you have great experience, then a businesses may approach you based on your online profiles. Remember that although the Internet is very useful, but many people working in Spain have also got a job through word of mouth. Good Luck!
