Work visa for Spain: deadlines and fees
Direct answer
Deadlines for work visa depend on the consulate or Foreigners Office; fees may be consular or form 790 (codes 012, 052 or others). Learn indicative amounts and when each fee is due.
Key facts
- Procedure: work visa.
- Educational content based on official sources (BOE, Ministry of Inclusion).
- Editorially reviewed August 2026.
- Does not replace legal advice or administrative decisions.
- Form 790 or consular fees depending on stage.
Our explanation
Indicative resolution times
Legal deadlines vary by procedure. Consulates often decide within two to four weeks off-peak; Foreigners Offices may take one to three months. Filing date stops the clock for in-Spain authorisations.
Consular fees vs form 790
Visas are paid at the consulate with the consular tariff. Do not mix fees: a 790 paid in Spain does not replace the visa fee abroad.
Common 790 codes
012 for NIE and TIE; 052 for residence authorisations; 026 for other cases. Check the official procedure page before paying. Amounts are published in the BOE.
Payment receipt validity
Keep the paid PDF. Some offices require a fee issued within recent days. A name error requires a new payment.
Entry deadline and TIE
After obtaining work visa, respect the visa entry period. In Spain, apply for the TIE within one month of entry if staying more than six months.
Renewal and late filing
Renew early. Late filing may create irregular status or require a new visa from the consulate.
Administrative silence
Depending on the procedure, silence may be positive or negative. Always keep the filing receipt with date and time.
Step by step
- Gather documents per consulate list.
- Book consulate appointment.
- Submit application and pay fee.
- Collect visa and enter within validity.
- Register and apply for TIE if required.
Requirements
- Valid passport.
- Completed official form.
- Proof of fee payment.
- Supporting documents per consulate checklist.
- Criminal record certificate.
- Health insurance valid in Spain.
FAQ
Is a lawyer mandatory for work visa?
Not in every case, but a poorly prepared file can delay resolution by months or lead to refusal.
Is this article official information?
No. We summarise public sources for educational purposes; only the Administration is binding.
Where do I submit the application?
At the consulate for visas from abroad; at the Foreigners Office or police station when in-Spain filing is allowed.
How much is the fee?
Amounts are published in the BOE and may be updated. Verify the exact code before paying.
Official sources
Verified primary references. Our explanation is independent and does not replace official regulations.