Spain continues to position itself as a top destination for international athletes and artists seeking to develop their professional careers in the country. Spanish immigration law provides specific procedures to facilitate the entry and stay of these profiles, recognizing the value they contribute to the sports and cultural sectors.
Professional Athletes Signed by Spanish Teams
Foreign professional athletes who are hired by clubs or sports entities in Spain must obtain a residence and work permit as an employee. This process allows for the regularization of their situation and authorizes them to carry out their professional activity within Spanish territory.
Who is it for?
This procedure is available to all types of professional athletes with a contract from a recognized entity in Spain. However, it is important to note that the process may vary depending on the sport and whether the occupation is included in the Catalogue of Hard-to-Fill Occupations, published quarterly by the Public State Employment Service (SEPE).
In this regard, professional football players and sports coaches are expressly included in the catalogue. This inclusion allows football clubs to hire foreign players and coaches without the need to prove the unavailability of national candidates for the position, which significantly streamlines the process.
For other professional athletes not included in the catalogue, the employer must prove that no suitable candidates are available in Spain, which may add complexity to the process.
Procedure
The application must be submitted by the club or sports entity to the corresponding Immigration Office. The basic documentation includes:
- Signed employment contract
- Copy of the applicant’s passport
- Proof of professional background (achievements, sports career, etc.)
- Medical certificate and criminal record certificate from the country of origin
- Documentation from the hiring club or entity
The initial authorization is valid for one year and can be renewed based on the duration of the employment relationship and compliance with legal requirements.
Artists Hired for Cultural Activities or Events in Spain
Foreign artists invited to participate in events, tours, festivals, or cultural activities may access different types of authorizations depending on the duration and intensity of their participation in Spain. The regulation distinguishes between short-term contracts and temporary residence projects with a work component.
Possible Types of Authorization
- Temporary residence and work permit as an employee: For artists with ongoing contracts or activities spanning several months.
- Permit for short-term work stays: For short-term projects such as a one-time performance, filming, or cultural event.
General Requirements
The procedure requires the organizing or promoting entity to submit the application to the Immigration Office. The following documents must be provided:
- Contract or letter of invitation proving the professional or employment relationship
- Valid passport
- Documentation supporting the applicant’s artistic background and reputation
- Evidence of the event’s nature and the duration of the activity in Spain
Immigration Regulation Reform
Starting May 20, 2025, a reform of the Immigration Regulation will come into effect, introducing measures to simplify and speed up these types of procedures. Among the most relevant changes are shorter processing times and more flexible requirements for artists with recognized prestige, representing a significant improvement in the management of these applications.
Conclusion
Both athletes and artists who wish to carry out their professional activities in Spain must comply with a series of legal and administrative requirements. The procedure may vary depending on the specific discipline or activity, and it is crucial to understand the criteria applicable to each case.
At Gentile Law, we have a team specialized in immigration and foreign affairs law, with extensive experience in processing residence and work permits for professionals in sports and culture. We offer rigorous and personalized legal advice tailored to each profile and need, ensuring an efficient, secure process in compliance with current regulations.
Pablo Lanfranchi
pablolanfranchi@gentile.law
+34 604 51 60 52