How to work in Barcelona as a foreigner

Barcelona is a city full of life, culture, and opportunities. With its pleasant climate, beautiful beaches, and impressive architecture, it is no wonder that many foreigners are attracted to the city and decide to make the move to a destination that offers the perfect balance between work and leisure.

Barcelona offers endless possibilities for those looking to settle down and find a new job. Barcelona is a hotbed of innovation and creativity, making it an ideal place for entrepreneurs and professionals from all sectors.

Why work in Barcelona as a foreigner?

As we have said, Barcelona’s magnificent Mediterranean climate and its wide range of cultural offerings are some of the main reasons why people from all over the world decide to start a new life here.

However, the city is also full of job opportunities in areas such as technology, pharmaceuticals, consultancy, design, tourism, marketing, health, sport, and the agri-food sector.

In addition, the quality of life is high: the city has excellent public services, a varied gastronomic offer and is surrounded by beautiful beaches and mountains. Last but not least, Barcelona is a cosmopolitan city where multiple languages are spoken and cultural diversity is respected. All this makes it an ideal place for foreigners looking for new job opportunities and a new life experience.

The workplace culture. What is it like to work in Barcelona?

Working in Barcelona as a foreigner can be a unique and enriching experience. The city’s work culture is vibrant and dynamic, and it’s all about maintaining a healthy balance between work and free time.

More and more companies are opting for flexible working hours, often with a lunch break at lunchtime and as a teleworking option.

In terms of the working environment, the Barcelona locals are known for their friendly and welcoming attitude. It is not uncommon for co-workers to become close friends, and the after-work culture of going out for beers and tapas late into the night, even in the middle of the week, is very common.

Finding a job as a foreigner in Barcelona

Finding a job in Barcelona can seem daunting at first, but don’t worry, there are plenty of tools and resources that can make your search easier. For starters, you can use job platforms such as InfoJobs, LinkedIn or Indeed, where companies post job offers of all kinds and for all levels of experience. You can also look on Facebook groups dedicated to job hunting in Barcelona, where you can find informal job offers or hourly jobs.

In addition, there are employment agencies that offer personalised services to help you find the perfect job for you. Some of these agencies include Randstad, which has specialised consultants by sector who can advise you on the best options according to your skills and interests.

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of networking. Attending professional or social events can be a great way to meet new people and make valuable contacts that could lead to your next job. In addition, Barcelona hosts several international congresses such as the Mobile World Congress, which provides unique opportunities to connect with professionals and companies in the technology sector.

Tips for finding a job in Barcelona as a foreigner

Finding a job in a new city can be a challenge, but with the right tips, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips:

• It is important to have your CV updated and adapted to the Spanish market. This includes translating it into Spanish (if it is not already) and adapting the format to meet local expectations. In Spain, for example, it is common to include a photo on the CV.
• Make use of professional social networks such as LinkedIn, events and job fairs to network and keep up to date with job offers.
• Learn Spanish if you are not yet fluent. Although many companies use English, speaking Spanish will open many more doors. Studying Catalan, the local language in Barcelona, will also open many doors in companies in the city.
• Show proactivity and perseverance. Don’t despair if you don’t get a job right away; keep trying and you’re sure to find something that matches your skills and expectations.

Requirements to work in Barcelona as a foreigner

To work in Barcelona as a foreigner, EU citizens need to obtain the NIE, the resident identification number. You can apply for the NIE directly in Spain, either in person at an Immigration Office or at a police station that carries out this procedure.

If you are a citizen of a country outside the European Union or the European Economic Area (EEA), you will probably need to obtain a visa to be able to work legally in Barcelona. The type of visa required will depend on the type of work you are looking for and your personal situation. It is important to research and obtain the right visa before you start looking for a job.

Live It, your long-term accommodation in Barcelona

If you are planning to stay in the city for a while, we recommend you to live the coliving experience at Live It, our coliving in Barcelona located in the best areas of the city.

These spaces promote a multicultural and multilingual lifestyle, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a diverse community and meet like-minded people. The concept of coliving goes beyond simply renting rooms; it is about fostering coexistence and cultural exchange in the heart of Barcelona.

Discover our rooms in the Gothic Quarter, rooms in Barcelona city centre and rooms in the Raval. With colivers from all over the world, you will have the unique opportunity to learn about different cultures while making new friends. In addition, all Live It accommodations are fully equipped with everything you need to feel at home from day one.

So now you know, if you want to live an unforgettable experience while settling in Barcelona, choose Live It!