The New Law for Entrepreneurs has made the process of hiring highly qualified personnel much easier. Before the law was put into effect, the options for hiring highly qualified foreigners required excessive documentation and financial solvency that had to be presented in person by a company representative. Administration also had up to three months to come to a decision and notify the company.
Many companies ran into problems before the New Law for Entrpreneurs came into effect in 2013 because if they chose to hire a foreigner who has not lived in Spain for three consecutive years, then that foreigner was subject to the national employment situation, thus not guaranteeing immigration approval. It was also difficult to hire foreigners currently living outside of Spain.
The New Law for Entrepreneurs has simplified the process of hiring highly qualified personnel. Foreigners residing inside as well as outside of Spain may apply. The amount of documentation required upon submitting the application has been reduced significantly and the company has the option to authorize another person to submit the application on their behalf. Administration will come to a decision and notify the company in only 20 days.
If the foreigner is residing outside of Spain, after being approved he must request the corresponding residence visa at the Spanish consulate where he resides. If the foreigner is currently residing in Spain, then he does not need to request a new visa and may apply for his residence and work permit immediately.