spain
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spain
LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 1 Although this brochure has been elaborated with the utmost care, the National Public Employment Service - INEM (EURES) will not accept any responsibility derived from the use of this information. LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 2 Esta publicación ha sido realizada con ayuda de los Fondos de la Comisión Europea, edición realizada por el Servicio Público de Empleo Estatal (INEM). Condesa de Venadito, 9 Edición: 5.000 ejemplares NIPO: 215-05-086-0 Depósito Legal: M-5156-2006 Elaboración: Red EURES - ESPAÑA Diseño: PRINTERALIA LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 3 Living and working in SPAIN CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Introduction .................................................................................................. 5 2. Free movement of workers .................................................................... 8 3. Labour market ........................................................................................... 10 4. Finding work in Spain ........................................................................... 12 5. Social security, health and unemployment benefits .............. 17 6. Taxes .............................................................................................................. 22 7. Employment ............................................................................................... 26 8. Accommodation ....................................................................................... 30 9. The spanish education system .......................................................... 33 10. Certificate and diploma equivalence in the european economic space ........................................................................................ 38 11. Culture .......................................................................................................... 40 12. Legal assistance ....................................................................................... 42 13. Useful telephones & addresses ......................................................... 43 14. Do not forget ............................................................................................. 53 3 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 4 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 5 Living and working in SPAIN 1. INTRODUCTION Official name Kingdom of Spain, common local name Spain. Spain is located in the south-west of Europe, on the Iberian Peninsula. Its total surface area is 504,750 km_, and it shares the peninsula with Portugal. Apart from mainland Spain, the national territory also includes the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean, and, in North Africa, the cities of Ceuta and Melilla. It is the third-largest European country in land mass and the fifth-largest in population. Spain’s climate is temperate, with abundant sunshine, but there is also a great diversity in its weather. The first climate zone is the northern strip, which includes the regions of Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country, where rain is abundant and constant, summers are mild and winters are quite cold. To the south of this strip, the interior zone enjoys a continental climate. Finally, in the rest of the coastal zones, especially Andalusia and the Levant region, winters tend to be milder and summers are warm. According to the latest official number published 1 January 2005, the population is 44,000,000. There are currently more than 2.6 million foreigners registered in Spain, representing over 6.2% of the total population. The arrival and regularisation of foreigners in recent years has been very intense. It is calculated that the number of residents has quadrupled since 1998. Nearly 60% of these foreigners reside in the regions of Madrid, Catalonia and Valencia. This shows foreigners prefer large cities, such as Madrid, Barcelona or Valencia, to live and work. Some 22.1% of all foreigners reside in Andalusia, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands. The regions in the north and west of the peninsula are the ones with the lowest numbers of registered foreigners. The Spanish State is a parliamentary monarchy. The Legislative branch is based on a bicameral Parliament (“las Cortes”): Congress of the Deputies and Senate. Spain has a President of the Government, and a Head of State, which is the King. Spain is further configured as a State of autonomous regions, comprising 17 Autonomous Communities: Andalusia, Aragon, Asturias, Balearic Islands, the 5 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 6 Basque Country, Canary Islands, Cantabria, Castilla - La Mancha, Castilla - Leon, Catalonia, Extremadura, Galicia, La Rioja, Madrid, Murcia, Navarre and Valencia, each of which has its own parliament and president. In other words, political power in Spain is decentralised. LANGUAGE Spain is highly diversified culturally, which is reflected in the variety of languages spoken in the country. The official language throughout the country is Spanish. However, in many Autonomous Communities, this language shares official status with languages such as Basque, Catalan, Galician or Valencian, in their respective geographic areas. Although unofficial, there are other vernacular, minority languages used. These include Bable or Asturian, Leonese, Aragonese and Aranese. Speaking English, German or French only will make it very difficult to find work in Spain, with the exception of occasional jobs in tourist areas on the islands or on the coast. CURRENCY The legal monetary unit is the euro. Importing and exporting local currency is subject to declaration requirements when in excess of 6,000 (the amount exported may not exceed the amount declared upon arrival). Importing and exporting foreign currencies is unlimited, but it should be declared when in excess of 6,000 per person and trip, to avoid customs difficulties when leaving Spain. TIME Peninsula and Balearic Islands: GMT +1 Canary Islands: GMT. INTERNATIONAL TELEPHONE CALLS To place a call to Spain from abroad, you must dial the international access code of the country from which calling, plus 34 (country code for Spain) and the 9digit telephone number. 6 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 7 Living and working in SPAIN To call from Spain to another country, you must dial 00, followed by the country code and the telephone number. You may place calls from phone boxes. The boxes work with coins or with cards. To place a call within Spain, dial the number without any prefixes. The number will always consist of 9 digits, whether a landline or a mobile telephone. Mobile telephone technology in Spain is GSM (incompatible with some countries, such as the United States or Japan). If your technology is compatible with GSM, you should contact your operator in your country to make sure that you can use your mobile phone in Spain (some operators require activating international service). Once you have completed the procedures in your country of origin, you should only use the mobile phone in Spain as if it were a Spanish terminal. That is, you must dial 00 + the country code to place international calls. EMERGENCY SERVICES 1-1-2 is the Single Telephone Number for Emergencies of all type. In some regions, calls are handled in more than one language. In any case, it is an emergency service that functions 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Other telephones of interest: National police: Local police: Ambulances: Fire brigade: 091 092 061 080 7 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 8 2. FREE MOVEMENT OF WORKERS Citizens of the EES may travel, reside and work freely in any member nation, enjoying the same rights as the citizens of the selected country. This right to free movement is extended to their family members, whatever their citizenship. Therefore, as a citizen of an EES member nation, you can aspire to any type of work in Spain, whether employed by someone else or self-employed, without having to request a work permit. You will also have the same rights as Spanish citizens as regards salary, working conditions, access to housing, vocational training, social security or trade union affiliation. To enter Spain as an EU citizen, all you need is an ID card or a valid passport. You may stay three months to look for employment or to establish yourself as a self-employed worker. If after the three months you have still not found a job, you have a right to stay longer if you are still looking for work and you have real possibilities of finding it. Foreigners who, for economic, professional or social reasons, maintain links with Spain will be provided with a personal, unique and exclusive number, for identification purposes, called NIE (“Número de identificación de Extranjeros, Foreigners Identification Number”). Although the worker may take complete employment related formalities without the need to hold a NIE (registration at employment offices, affiliation with the Social Security), it is recommended that it be obtained if the stay in Spain is going to be lengthy. http://www.mir.es/sites/mir/extranje/regimen_comunitario/tarjeta_residencia.html RESIDENT’S CARD You may apply for a community resident’s card if you find employment or if you are a student or retiree to confirm your rights. However, this is not essential, as Spanish legislation does not include any resident’s card requirements (although having one makes it easier to complete certain administrative procedures). The 8 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 9 Living and working in SPAIN following people may reside in Spain without being required to hold a community resident’s card, as long as they possess a valid, non-expired ID card or passport: a) Citizens of European Union Member States, or of other States included in the European Economic Space Agreement (including Switzerland), who are: a. self-employed or salaried workers, b. students c. beneficiaries of the right to reside permanently. b) Family members of the people indicated in the previous paragraph, whatever their citizenship: a. spouse, as long as they are not legally separated; b. descendants, and those of the spouse when they are not legally separated, under the age of 21 or those over 21 if they are economically dependent; c. parents, and those of the spouse when they are not legally separated, who are economically dependent, except for the parents of students and their spouses c) Cross-border community (or EES) workers; that is, those who work in Spain but keep their residence in another Member State, to which they return every day, or at least once a week. The card is required when the European Economic Space Member State citizen wishes to apply for residence for a family member who is not a citizen of a Member State. The Resident’s Card may be applied for at the Foreigners Office in the province in which the interested party wishes to establish residence or, when there is none, at the corresponding Provincial Police Headquarters. The card’s validity period varies depending on group and period of residence. http://www.mir.es/sites/mir/extranje/regimen_comunitario/tarjeta_residencia.html 9 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 10 3. LABOUR MARKET During the first quarter of 2005, according to a report by the Chambers of Commerce, the Spanish economy maintained a growth rate similar to that of 2004, with a high employment creation rate. Construction and internal demand continue to drive economic activity, whilst exports have decreased. The productive sectors have shown stable growth in the services sector and industry has become less dynamic, compared to growth in 2004, affected by the poor export levels. Only construction continues to grow, making it the driving force of the economy. The sectors with both productive and employment growth are commerce and services, which continue along the lines of recovery started last year. The recovery in 2004 in industry gave rise to increased job creation in the sector, although in the first quarter of 2005 large commerce and services companies were the ones that created the greatest number of jobs. Data from the Labour Force Survey show a positive evolution during 2004, with accelerated employment growth and a sharp drop in unemployment in the final quarter. In the first quarter of 2005, the unemployment rate in Spain was around 10.2%. The distribution by group highlights a worrisome concentration of unemployment among young people (the unemployment rate for individuals under the age of 25 is around 22%) and women (13.64% unemployed). Although these numbers are quite high compared to neighbouring countries, they continue to fall and therefore they are considered positive, especially taking into account that the activity rate has grown to nearly 57% In regional terms, the lowest unemployment rates are found in Aragon, Navarre and Catalonia. The highest levels are in Ceuta, Melilla, Extremadura and Andalusia. The highest activity levels were recorded in Madrid, Catalonia and the Balearic Islands. Employment Opportunities. Opportunities may vary, depending on the sectorial specialisation of the regions. Keep in mind also that the needs of the labour market change quickly. 10 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 11 Living and working in SPAIN According to data from the INEM Monitoring Centre, the reasons for which employers to have difficulty covering vacancies, which generates employment opportunities, are diverse. Some are related to the lack of qualification and professional experience of the workers. In other cases, the opportunities arise due to the dynamics of the economic activity itself or its seasonality. There are employment opportunities for: • Technical and commercial salespeople • Cooks and waiters • Construction professionals: bricklayers, cement operators and other qualified workers • Carpenters, electricians • Mechanics, welders • Lorry drivers • Unskilled workers, such as cleaning personnel and farm labourers Skilled employment: The Infoempleo 2004 report includes the regional distribution of the skilled labour offer. Of the total offer, the 42% is distributed between the Autonomous Communities of Madrid and Catalonia. These are followed in order of importance by Andalusia, Valencia and the Basque Country. In any case, the report indicates that there has been a decline in the concentration in recent years. The most relevant sectors are construction and public works, industry and consultancy, and by function, those of sales and customer support, production and general services. As regards offers that require qualifications, in Spain it is common for companies to request professionals with specific qualifications. The greatest demand continues to be for technical qualifications (architects and technical and upperlevel engineers), followed by business administration and management and economics. 11 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 12 4. FINDING WORK IN SPAIN Despite the progressive drop in the unemployment rate in recent years in Spain, finding work is not an easy task, so it is essential to use all available resources (acquaintances, family members, press, information centres, professional associations...), as well as the EURES network and a healthy dose of imagination and creativity. Public Employment Services The Spanish Public Employment Service (INEM) and the Autonomous Community services (regional) have a network of offices with services available to all workers. Individuals over the age of 16 may register with the public employment services by presenting a valid identification document or passport, as long as they have a home address. To access professions that require qualifications, you must certify that you fulfil the requirements to work in that profession in Spain. Services they provide: job offers, career guidance, vocational training, unemployment benefits processing, information on employment support measures. Addresses may be found in the telephone book or on the INEM web site, which has links to the Autonomous Community public employment services. Some of them provide information on job offers through their web site. Many have information and useful addresses for finding work, as well as job searching guides. To find the web sites for the Autonomous Community employment services, see the useful addresses section in this guide. www.inem.es EURES (European Employment Services) EURES (European Employment Services) is a network for co-operation established between the European Commission, the national employment services of the Member States, Norway and Iceland and (in the case of the cross-border regions) the organisations that represent the social partners. 12 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 13 Living and working in SPAIN It may be useful to contact the EURES network in your country. Information is available through the Public Employment Service. They will provide you with information on job offers in Spain and other information of interest to help you determine and/or develop your mobility project. EURES has a web site that provides information related to mobility and a database with employment opportunities in the member countries, as well as an application for inserting your CV online. This information is available at http://europa.eu.int/eures Private Placement Agencies and Collaborating Entities The current management model for some of the public employment services in Spain includes entities (Universities, professional associations, etc.) that work with the public employment service to provide the same services to workers free of charge. These entities can provide their services to all types of workers or to specific groups (university students, people with disabilities, workers in a particular activity sector). There are also private placement agencies that operate in the Spanish labour market, which are authorised by the Labour Administration. The Autonomous Community employment service will provide you with information on these entities and the services that they offer. Temporary Employment Agencies Unlike other labour market intermediaries, these companies hire workers directly and then loan them to the User Company by means of an availability contract, delegating to these the management and control of the work to be carried out. They are especially useful for finding temporary employment. Press All Spanish national, regional and provincial newspapers have a daily section with job offers, although the Sunday editions publish the greatest number of offers. 13 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 14 National newspapers include EI País, ABC, EI Mundo, La Razón and EI Periódico, and La Vanguardia in Barcelona. All of them have a special employment supplement in their Sunday edition. The German, English or French language newspapers published in the major Spanish tourist areas also include a job offer section in which knowledge of foreign languages tends to be a prerequisite for the jobs. The international press also usually publishes employment offers for Spain, although they are generally aimed at executive, technical or professional staff. Newspapers and professional journals available in the EES may also be a good source of useful information on employment in Spain, especially if they include a special Employment section. There are also Spanish publications that specialise in jobs and employment offers. El Mundo El País ABC La Razón El Periódico La Vanguardia Busca medios http://www.elmundo.es http://www.elpais.es http://www.abc.es http://www.larazon.es http://www.elperiodico.es http://www.lavanguardia.es http://www.buscamedios.com Chambers of Commerce The Chambers of Commerce, both in the country of origin and in Spain, are also possible sources of information on the economy and on businesses. They are especially useful for obtaining advice on establishing oneself as a self-employed worker. https://www.camaras.org http://www.camerdata.es/ (companies file) http://www.vue.es/ Single business window. Procedures for creating companies 14 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 15 Living and working in SPAIN Associations, Professional Bodies and Trade Unions Other sources of information include professional associations and trade unions. Some professions in Spain have an Official Association that you must register with to work in that profession. Self-Proposal and Personal Contacts Some companies offer an application form, but it is more common to provide a CV with a cover letter. This may occur as a result of an offer or an ad in the press, or by presenting a self-proposed application. Cover letter. This is not a simple formality, it is your calling card and the first impression that you make on the company. Unless otherwise indicated, the letter and the CV must be written in Spanish. They should by computer drafted in A4 format, and on a single page. They should be concise, using formal language. The letter must be related directly to the job that you are applying for. Avoid using a standard form letter. Curriculum Vitae: There are no strict rules for presenting your CV, but here are some tips that may be helpful. It should be structured, clear and concise. It should be computer drafted. It should be kept to a maximum of two pages in DIN A4 format. A photo is not required, but it may be recommendable for some jobs. Do not include qualifications and certificates. Unless otherwise requested, they are submitted during the interview. Language: direct, using simple sentences. Avoid acronyms and abbreviations. Structure: • Personal Data: name, nationality, full address, telephone (including international prefix), e-mail etc... • Training: Include academic education and complementary training. A separate section is usually included for language and computer skills. For the academic education, indicate only the highest level attained, indicating the centre where it was obtained, the location and the start and end dates of the studies. 15 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 16 • Experience: this may be structured in chronological or inverse chronological order, and also by professional area. Indicate the company, profession, dates and tasks performed. • Additional information: This section is optional and open, and it is used to indicate other information that may be useful for performing the job, such as holding a driving license, willingness to travel... References are not normally included, although this section may be used to add a comment such as “references available upon request”. CV templates and advice for writing them may be found on most public employment service web sites in Spain. Contacts and personal relationships are very useful for finding employment. If you have friends or family in Spain, it is useful to tell them that you are looking for work, since many vacancies are covered through this type of contacts and references. 16 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 17 Living and working in SPAIN 5. SOCIAL SECURITY, HEALTH AND UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS Social Security The Social Security Administration in Spain comprises a set of Administrative bodies and Public Organisations with powers and authorities designed to provide Spanish citizens and, when appropriate, foreigners residing in our country, with a collection of assistance, health and economic benefits. The Social Security System is an indispensable element and an essential objective in modern society as a public protection system covering any situation of need, for all citizens. The Spanish Social Security System is managed, among others, by three public entities that depend on the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs: the National Social Security Institute (INSS), the Treasury General of the Social Security (TGSS) and the Social Marine Institute (ISM). The Community Regulations for Social Security will be applied to the citizens of a European Union or European Economic Space Member State who are selfemployed or employed by others and who are or have been subject to the legislation of one or more of those States, students, civil servants and stateless individuals or refugees residing in one of the Member States, as well as to their family members and survivors. In accordance with the Agreement between the European Union and Switzerland, they are also applied to Swiss Citizens. These regulations apply to the following Social Security benefits: illness and maternity (health care, temporary disability and maternity), permanent disability, including those established to maintain or improve the ability to make a living, old age, survivors, work-related injury and professional disease, death subsidies, unemployment and family member benefits. Health Care The quality of health care in Spain is quite good. There are both public hospitals (belonging to the Social Security) and private ones. The basic Spanish Social 17 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 18 Security health care network is structured around consulting centres, health centres and hospitals. Spain has a reciprocal health care agreement with several countries (including all of the countries in the European Union). Citizens of these countries must request the European Health Card from their medical centre, which, since June 2004, replaces the E-111 document, to use the public medical services in Spain. The State, through the National Health System, guarantees the availability and quality of the services anywhere in the country. The Departments of Health and Regional Health Services in the Autonomous Communities have assumed the corresponding responsibilities, functions and financing. Lists of hospitals and health centres are available from the local offices. Treatment in the public social security system is free. If special care is required, the doctor refers the patient to a specialist with an official report. Medicine is always prescribed by the doctor on an official prescription form, and the patient has to pay 40% of the price. Some medicines are not covered by the social security. Treatment is free at hospitals in the social security system. Patients have a right to certain services such as prosthetics, orthopaedics, transfusions, etc. free of charge when needed. All self-employed individuals and those employed by others must be affiliated with the social security, paying the monthly contributions through their employer. A social security card will be provided, which grants the right to free hospital and medical care. Private insurance may also be taken out through the many private medical companies in Spain. They are listed in telephone books as “Sociedades Médicas”. In this case, treatment expenses are not reimbursed, except in certain emergency situations. 18 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 19 Living and working in SPAIN Addresses of Interest Web Site: Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs (“Ministerio de Sanidad y Consumo”) http://www.msc.es • Office of ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION AND CITIZEN SUPPORT (“Oficina de INFORMACIÓN ADMINISTRATIVA Y ATENCIÓN AL CIUDADANO”). The information may be requested in person, in writing or by telephone at: Pº del Prado 18-20 (ground floor) 28014, Madrid. Telephones: 915961089 / 90 / 91-Fax: 915964480. Links to the Autonomous Community Ministries of Health Community/City/Department/Ministry. • Basque Country Department of Health http://www.euskadi.net/sanidad/indice_c.htm • Catalonia Department of Health and Social Security http://www.gencat.net/sanitat/portal/es/latest.html • Galicia Ministry of Health http://www.xunta.es/conselle/csss/index.htm • Andalusia Ministry of Health http://www.csalud.junta-andalucia.es/principal • Asturias Ministry of Health and Medical Services http:// www.princast.es • Cantabria Ministry of Health, Consumer Affairs and Social Welfare: www.csanidadcantabria.com/sanidad2/index.html • La Rioja Ministry of Health and Social Services: http://www.larioja.org/ • Murcia Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs http://www.carm.es/csan/ • Valencia Ministry of Health http:///www.san.gva.es/ • Aragon Department of Health, Consumer Affairs and Social Welfare: http://www.portal.aragob.es • Castilla - La Mancha Ministry of Health: http://www.jccm.es/sanidad/prog.htm • Canary Islands Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs: http://www.gobcan.es/sanidad/ • Navarre Department of Health: http://www.cfnavarra.es/Salud/ • Extremadura Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs: http://www.juntaex.es/consejerias/syc/home.html • Balearic Islands Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs: http//:web2.caib.es 19 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 20 • Madrid Ministry of Health: http://www.madrid.org/sanidad/home.htm • Castilla - Leon Ministry of Health and Social Welfare: http://www.jcyl.es • City of Ceuta Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs: http:// www.ciceuta.es/consejerias/marcosconsej.htm Unemployment Benefits Unemployment benefits are economic benefits available to salaried workers who, having contributed to the General Social Security Scheme, lose their job, completely or partially, and are in a legally recognised situation of unemployment. In Spain, workers who are employed by others (except civil servants and those who do not make contributions for this concept, such as domestic employees) are required to be insured, covering the loss of employment. Contributions for this coverage are made by the employers, the workers and the State. There are two levels of coverage for unemployment benefits under the Spanish system: Contributory Level Benefits All workers employed by others who have contribution periods in the general Social Security scheme of over 360 days have a right to receive contributorylevel unemployment benefits when they lose their job, completely or partially, for reasons beyond their control. Assistance Level Benefits Workers who are legally unemployed and registered with the Public Employment Services, who do not have a right to contributory-level benefits or whose benefits have expired, may apply for an assistance-level unemployment benefit if they meet the conditions established for certain groups. The Spanish unemployment benefits system is managed by the INEM-SPES. If you lose your job while in Spain, contact the local SPES office, where you will receive information on applying for unemployment benefits. If you want to return to your country and apply for unemployment benefits there, you must first request the E-301 form from the SPES to be able to count the period worked in Spain. 20 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 21 Living and working in SPAIN Exporting the Unemployment Benefit If you are receiving unemployment benefits or subsidies in your country or in any other in the EES, you may export it to another Member State to look for employment in the new country for a maximum of 3 months. To do so, you must have been registered with the Public Employment Service in the country of origin for at least 4 weeks and you must notify that service of your actual date of departure and register with the Spanish Public Employment Service (INEM) within 7 days of departing from the former Member State. You must bring form E-303, which will be issued to you by the Employment Service that granted you the right. Keep in mind that the processing may take up to 2 months. Contact your SPES Office for more information. (http://www.inem.es) 21 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 22 6. TAXES One of the most important questions to be resolved upon arrival in the country to which you have moved, in this case Spain, is to register with that country’s tax collecting institution. Remember to bring the required tax document from your country of origin, as well as certification that you have processed all pending tax issues prior to leaving. You will also need the documentation for the new job or new source of income. When you arrive, do not forget that you may need to open a bank account, and remember to set aside enough money to pay your taxes. Spain collects the following taxes Direct Taxes: Personal Income Tax (IRPF): Tax applied to the income earned by individuals during the calendar year; that is, the earnings from work, professional activities or business activities, income and those derived from property. The amount is determined by the income earned (progressive rate: the higher the income, the higher the tax percentage) and the discounts and deductions that may apply in each particular case, and after deducting the withholdings and fractional payments made during the calendar year. In general, you must declare all of your income (earnings obtained anywhere in the world) in the country in which you maintain your legal residence. The legal residence, as concerns the IRPF is normally the regular place of work and residence; that is, the country in which you have resided for 183 days or more during a particular tax year. However, the “legal” residence may be determined by other factors, such as residence of family members, close personal and economic ties, location where registered, location where most work is conducted... so it is advisable to seek information on your tax situation in Spain before deciding whether or not to accept a job here. The declaration of this tax is made during the months of May and June of the year following the year declared. Failure to declare or declaring outside of the established period will be sanctioned, as is the case with all other taxes. 22 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 23 Living and working in SPAIN The European Union Member States have signed tax agreements (Double Taxation Agreements, DTA) to prevent taxing the income of people who travel or reside in different countries of the Union twice. (http://www.minhac.es/tributos/cdipaises.htm) (http://www.aeat.es/normlegi/cdi/home.html) Business Tax: In general terms, it is very similar to the IRPF, but it affects legal entities (companies, enterprises, associations...). The general tax rate is currently set at 35%, although there are also other special rates applied to certain types of legal entities. Estate Tax: This is a progressive tax on private ownership of goods and economic rights, whenever they exceed the minimum exemption. It is declared during the same period as the IRPF. Inheritance and Donation Tax: This is a tax on goods and rights, whether acquired by any form of succession (Inheritance) or by free “inter vivos” acquisition (Donations). Indirect Taxes: Value Added Tax (VAT): This tax is applied to the delivery of goods and services provided by companies and professionals and to the importation of goods, except for the legally established exemptions. The applicable tax rates vary between 4% for goods considered basic needs and the general 16%. Estate Transfer Tax and Stamp Duty: This tax is applied to the transfer of goods and economic rights “inter vivos” that are burdensome, as well as the documentation of legal acts that are formalised or applicable in Spain. The applicable tax rate varies according to the type of property transfer or legal act (notary, mercantile, administrative or judicial) that is documented. 23 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 24 Special Taxes and Excises: Unlike the VAT, which taxes general consumption, these taxes apply to the consumption of certain goods. These taxes are currently levied on: hydrocarbons, alcohol and distilled beverages, wine and fermented beverages, beer, tobacco...). One tax that you must keep in mind if you have a car is the Special Tax on certain means of transport, which is applied to the registration of automobiles, boats and aircraft. New and used means of transport to which the tax is applied must be registered in Spain when they are to be used in Spain by people or entities residing in Spain. There are also other national-level taxes, such as the Insurance Premiums Tax and those related to importing and exporting goods (that is, taxes on foreign trade) which are in accordance with European Union legislation. Local Taxes: Property Tax: Applied to the ownership of real estate property. Economic Activities Tax: Applied to the exercise of any business, professional or artistic activity. Motor Vehicle Tax: Applied to ownership of motor vehicles authorised to travel on public roadways. Construction, Installation and Works Tax: Applied to any construction, installation or works activity that requires the corresponding urban development permit. Capital Gain on Urban Land Tax: applied to the increased value of urban land as a result of transferring ownership. You should seek information on your tax situation at the Tax Administration in your country of origin prior to departing for Spain, as well as at the Spanish 24 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 25 Living and working in SPAIN Embassy or one of the Consulates in your country (http://www.mae.es/mae/textos/embajadas/relalf.htm) In Spain, you may obtain information at the Provincial Offices of the State Tax Administration Agency and at the corresponding Administrations. You may consult the Tax Agency page on the internet at http://www.aeat.es, call on Tel.: 901 33 55 33 (basic tax information) or contact: Tax Office in Madrid (“Delegación de Hacienda en Madrid”) Exchequer (“Ministerio de Hacienda”) Guzmán El Bueno 139, 3ª plta. E - 28003 Madrid Tel: (00 34) 91 582 67 67 (Ext. 6537) Fax: (00 34)91 582 65 77 http://www.minhac.es Tax Department (“Dirección General de Tributos”) c/ Alcalá, nº 5 28014 MADRID Tel.: 91 595 80 00 Extension: 8043 Fax: 91 595 84 54 State Tax Administration Agency (“Agencia Estatal de la Administración Tributaria”) San Enrique, 26 28071 Madrid Tel.: 91 583 70 00 Extension: 8998 Fax: 91 583 70 05 http://www.aeat.es/ Customs and Excise Department (“Departamento de Aduanas e Impuestos Especiales”) (Headquarters and Offices): http://www.aeat.es/aduanas/donde/home.html E-mail: [email protected] Tel.: 91 728 96 08 / 05 25 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 26 7. EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS Any citizen of the countries in the European Economic Space have the same rights as Spaniards as regards salaries, promotion, social security working conditions and other work-related rights. The minimum working age is 16, although authorisation is required from parents or guardians until the age of 18, unless the individual has been emancipated legally. Duration: The contract may be indefinite (“fijo”) or for a specified period of time (“temporal”). Unless otherwise stated in the contract, it is presumed to be indefinite and full-time. Formalisation: The employment contract may be established in writing or verbal, although the vast majority of the contracts in Spain are in writing. Verbal contracts may be formalised in writing at any time while the contract is in effect. The following types of contracts must always be in writing: • • • • • • • • • 26 Apprenticeship Training, Contract for a specific job or service, Part-time contract, Permanent intermittent Relief, Home, Workers hired in Spain to work for Spanish companies abroad, Contracts for a set amount of time greater than four weeks. LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 27 Living and working in SPAIN Trial period: A trial period may be established in the contract during which the parties may terminate the contract for no reason. Although it is not obligatory, when such a period is established the maximum duration allowed is 6 months for qualified technicians and 2 months for all other workers. In companies with fewer than 25 workers, the trial period may not exceed three months, except for qualified technicians. Workday, holidays and leave of absence: The maximum duration of the ordinary workday is 40 hours per week, with no more than 9 hours a day. Minors under the age of 18 may not work more than 8 hours a day, including, in the case of training contracts, the time dedicated to that training. Holiday may never be less than 30 days, including Saturdays and Sundays. There are also 12 national and 2 local holidays per year. Workers also have a right to 15 days leave for marriage and 16 weeks for maternity, which the father may take part of if both parents work. Salary: The following basic concepts are established by collective agreement or in the individual contracts: • Base salary • Salary complements: seniority, extra pays, profit sharing, distance and transport allowances... • Job complements: stress, toxic environments, danger, shifts, night work, etc., • Bonuses for production, per diem, accommodation, etc... Payment must be made in periods of no greater than one month, and the employer is responsible for withholding the taxes and social security contributions from the workers’ salaries. One unique aspect of salaries in Spain is that workers have a right to at least two extra pays per year; one is normally paid at Christmas and the other in summer. They may also be prorated if so established by agreement. 27 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 28 The minimum professional wage (S.M.I.) is the minimum remuneration set annually by the government. It is illegal to hire a worker for less than that amount. In 2005, the minimum wage for any activity in agriculture, industry and services, with no gender or age discrimination, has been set at € 17,10/day or € 513/month. The annual amount, including complements, may not be less than € 7,182 for a legal full-time workday. When the workday is less than full-time, the salary is reduced in proportion to the time. For domestic employees who provide their services by the hour, the minimum wage is 4.01/hour worked, with the proportional part of the extra pays and holidays included in that amount. Updated information on the minimum professional wage is available at: www.mtas.es/infpuntual/entrada.htm For more information on salaries, see: http://www.tusalario.es/ Terminating the working relationship: the employment contract may be terminated by agreement between both parties, expiry of the employment contract, voluntary resignation of the worker, force majeure or dismissal (collective dismissal for economic reasons, disciplinary dismissal, etc...). Cases of contract expiry or dismissal always require notification from the employer (notifying the worker of the contract expiry or dismissal) and, when appropriate, a pre-notification made from between 15 to 30 days beforehand, depending on the working relationship and its duration. If the cause is a Dismissal by the employer, based on the worker’s failure to fulfil their duties, the worker must be notified in writing, indicating the reasons for the dismissal and the date on which it becomes effective. If the worker disagrees with the decision, they must file a request for conciliation within 20 working days before the Mediation, Arbitration and Conciliation unit in their Autonomous Community, before they can lodge a complaint with the Social Court. 28 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 29 Living and working in SPAIN SELF-EMPLOYED INDIVIDUALS If you wish to establish yourself as a self-employed worker in Spain, to carry out an economic activity without being subject to an employment contract, you must be 18 years of age or older and complete a series of formalities: • Complete the Tax Declaration for initiating activity with the Tax Agency (form 036) http://www.aeat.es - http://www.minhac.es/ • Register as a Social Security affiliate at the Social Security Offices http://www.seg-social.es/ • Register with the corresponding professional association, when this is requisite to practise the profession. If you wish to start a company, the procedures with the different administrations (national, regional and local) may be somewhat complex if you are not familiar with the Spanish procedures and formalities. You may obtain advice and information through the single business windows at the Chambers of Commerce. They do not complete the administrative procedures, but the information they provide is excellent. See the following pages: http://www.vue.es http://www.camaras.org Http://www.ventanillaempresarial.org If you wish to seek the help of a private professional to complete all of the procedures, contact a “GESTORÍA” (office specialised in dealings with public bodies). 29 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 30 8. ACCOMODATION Rent: If during your stay in Spain you wish to rent a flat, the best thing to do is to go through an estate agent or check the rental property sections in newspapers. Estate agents are listed in the yellow pages of the telephone book. http://www.paginasamarillas.es There are a number of web sites that can help you find accommodation, such as http://www.vivendum.com You must sign a rental contract with the owner. Rental contracts are valid, legal and lawful in any form, including verbal. However, it is best to use written contracts. For this case, there is an “official contract form” on stamped paper that may be purchased at “estancos” (tobacco shops). The tenant is required to provide a cash deposit equal to one month’s rent. In nearly all residential buildings community expenses and services are shared (caretaker, cleaning, gardening, swimming pool...), so you must find out if these expenses are included in the lease. Seasonal accommodation: Individuals interested in this type of accommodation may contact a Tourism Office, which will provide a list of available seasonal accommodations. The Youth Institute has partnership agreements with Town Halls to provide temporary rental housing to young people under the age of 30 with low incomes when they are away from their habitual residence for reasons of work, studies or to participate in cultural events and activities, sports, etc. These accommodations may be new construction or renovated homes located in the city’s historic quarter. http://www.injuve.mtas.es 30 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 31 Living and working in SPAIN Buying property: There are currently many EES estate agencies dedicated to buying Spanish properties. In Spain, you may contact a local estate agency. Information on buying property in Spain is also available from the Foundation Institute of Foreign Owners. For up-to-date information on market prices for new housing, the Valuation Society conducts a massive market study that analyses the new free-market housing promotions constructed in all provincial capitals. Some Autonomous Communities have a service called the “Bolsa de Vivienda Joven” (“Youth Housing Exchange”), where you may obtain general information on renting and buying a home, specialised legal information and press reports on housing rental and shared accommodation. This service maintains a bank of rental flats for young people at below-market prices, through an agreement with the owners. More information is available from the Youth services in each of the Autonomous Communities. Foundation Institute of Foreign Owners Tel. 96 584 23 12 Fax: 96 584 15 89 E-mail:[email protected] http://www.fipe.org Valuation society http.//www.st-tasacion.es/ yellow pages http://www.paginasamarillas.es/ INJUVE. Sectorial Programmes Service. Tel. 91 363 75 93 Fax: 91 402 21 94 E-mail: [email protected] http://www.injuve.mtas.es HOUSEHOLD GOODS In theory, for moves within the Union, there are no restrictions on the right to transport personal belongings. However, for reasons of general interest, Member States may prohibit or condition the use of certain products, such as: firearms, 31 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 32 tobacco, alcohol, medicines, drugs, products derived from protected species or certain pornographic material. The Spanish consulate provides information on exporting household goods and personal belongings. SERVICES Electricity: Electricity is contracted with the electric company that is responsible for commercialising this service in each area (ENDESA, IBERDROLA, UNION FENOSA, HIDROELÉCTRICA DEL CANTÁBRICO, BEGASA, etc.). Gas: Most Spanish cities have a centralised gas service that is paid according to meter readings. Natural gas is currently used. Individual electric heating systems are also quite common in Spain. However, bottled butane gas (“bombonas”), which is delivered to the home, is still used for cooking in many homes. Telephone: There are several telephone companies. You should inform yourself well before contracting services, since there are differences in rates and offers depending on the time and the destination of the calls (TELEFÓNICA, AIRTEL, UNI 2, ALO, JAZZTEL, RETEVISION, etc.) http://www.teltarifas.com 32 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 33 Living and working in SPAIN 9. SPANISH EDUCATION SYSTEM Primary and secondary education in Spain are compulsory and free. This education covers ages 6 to 16 and it is given at public, subsidised or private education centres (the private centres are not free). Responsibility for education has been transferred to the Autonomous Communities. Pre-primary Up to the age of 6, it consists of two cycles: the first cycle up to the age of 3, and the second up to the age of 6. This education is not compulsory, but the Administration must guarantee places for schooling the children for whom it is so requested. Primary Education It is compulsory and free. It consists of six academic years for ages 6 to 12 and it is organised into three 2-year cycles. Students enter Primary Education the calendar year in which they turn six years old. Compulsory Secondary Education This is a compulsory, free education stage consisting of four academic years between the ages of 12 and 16. It offers the education required to continue studies in either Higher Secondary Education or midlevel Vocational Training. The student and their parents may choose to conclude the compulsory schooling once the student turns 16, in which case they will be given the corresponding Compulsory Secondary Education Diploma. Higher Secondary Education . It is voluntary and lasts for two school years, normally between the ages of 16 and 18. These studies provide a general education which favours greater intellectual and personal maturity, while also preparing them for later studies, both at university and in vocational training. 33 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 34 Vocational Training The purpose of Vocational Training in the education system is to prepare students for work in a professional field, providing them with multipurpose training that allows them to adapt to the changes in the workplace that may arise throughout their life. It includes both basic vocational training and specific midlevel and upper-level vocational training. There are currently 142 official qualifications. There are also Special Education Systems, such as the Artistic studies: Plastic and design arts, Music, Dance and Art and Design, as well as Languages. Registration Period: In general the application submission period begins in April, with an extra period in September for mid- and upper-level training cycles. Later, in June or July, depending on the education level, the registration is formalised. In the case of the extra applications in September, the registration is formalised in that month. School Calendar: There may be variations between the different Autonomous Communities. However, it starts in mid-September and ends in the month of June, with holiday periods for Christmas, Holy Week and Summer. UNIVERSITY Access to university is made through an entrance examination. University education currently includes: 3-year Diplomas (“Diplomatura”) and 4-, 5- or 6-year Degrees (“Licenciatura”), depending on the selected course and the centre where the studies are given. The Universities are autonomous entities with the ability to establish their own educational offer. Students may study at any Public University they choose, regardless of their place of origin (Open District). There are also private universities. The university education structure is currently in the process of being modified to adapt it to the “Bologna process”. Prior to October 2007 there will be new university qualifications structured into GRADUATE and POSTGRADUATE. Graduate studies prepare students to work in a profession. POSTGRADUATE studies are structured, in turn, into a second cycle, leading to a MASTER, and a third cycle, which culminates in a DOCTORATE. 34 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 35 Living and working in SPAIN Spain has become the third most popular European country for foreign university students after England and Ireland. http://wwwn.mec.es/univ/index.html Masters, Doctorate and Postgraduate Studies Nearly all Spanish Universities offer postgraduate, doctorate, masters and degree studies. FOREIGN CENTRES IN SPAIN There are centres in Spain that offer non-university studies corresponding to education systems in other countries. You may obtain more information from the education bodies in your country or at the embassy. It is also possible, at certain education centres, to take studies leading to dual qualifications (academic qualifications in both countries). This is the case of those participating in the partnership agreement between the Spanish Ministry of Education and Science and The British Council (MCDE-British Council Agreement). Useful addresses: National Association of British Schools: information on these centres and their location: http://www.nabss.org/index.html European School (Alicante): Follows the European Schools study plan. It covers from pre-primary to secondary education. http://www.eursc.org/SE/htmlEn/IndexEn_home.html NON-FORMAL EDUCATION Vocational Training These are courses designed for unemployed individuals registered as job seekers in the Public Employment Services. Information is available from the public employment services. Training is free. 35 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 36 Continuing Training Courses for currently-employed workers organised by the companies, the workers, or trade union organisations, aimed both at improving skills and qualifications and at requalifying workers, making it possible to harmonise company competitiveness with the individual training of the workers. http://www.inem.es SPANISH FOR FOREIGNERS: Courses are provided by both private and public organisations. Find out more at the Official Language School nearest you or through the Ministry of Education. The Instituto Cervantes also offers Spanish language courses at its centres, organises examinations in Spain to obtain the DELE (Diploma for Spanish as a Foreign Language, which is an official qualification that certifies the level of skill and fluency in the Spanish language, awarded by the Ministry of Education and Science) and provides information on over 1,300 courses in Spanish for foreigners in Spain, nearly 300 education centres and close to 100 locations. http://eee.cervantes.es 36 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 37 Living and working in SPAIN Spanish education system 37 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 38 10. CERTIFICATE AND DIPLOMA EQUIVALENCE IN THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC SPACE RECOGNITION OF PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS This recognition is for professional qualifications only, not academic, and leads to authorisation to practise a profession that is regulated in Spain. The primary beneficiaries are professionals, not students. The community Directives that regulate this matter are grouped into two categories: Sectorial Directives and Directives establishing a general recognition system. The sectorial directives affect the following professions: Doctor, Specialist Doctor, General Nurse, Midwife, Dentist, Veterinarian, Pharmacist and Architect. This legislation for the recognition of qualifications applies exclusively to citizens of the 25 Member States of the European Union and the signatory States of the Agreement for Non-Union Members of the European Economic Space. The current list of professions that are regulated in Spain and require qualification recognition may be obtained from: http://wwwn.mec.es/mecd/jsp/plantilla.jsp?id=111&area=titulos Application and competent authorities: The responsible authority is different for each profession, being the National or Autonomous Community Ministerial Department related to the profession in question. 38 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 39 Living and working in SPAIN ACADEMIC RECOGNITION (CERTIFICATION, RECOGNITION) Certification Certification gives the qualification from another country, from the date on which it is granted and the corresponding credential is issued, the same value as the Spanish academic qualification or level for which it is certified. Recognition The value of recognition of studies is, generally, academic only, as it allows individuals to continue studying in the Spanish education system. The studies may lead, when appropriate, to obtaining the corresponding Spanish qualification. The general information related to professional and academic recognition may be obtained from: Ministerio de Educación y Ciencia (“Ministry of Education and Science”) Subdirección General de Títulos, Convalidaciones y Homologaciones (“Subdirectorate General for Qualifications, Recognition and Certification”) Consejería técnica de Títulos de la Unión Europea (“Technical Office for European Union Qualifications”) Paseo del Prado, 28014- MADRID Tel. 91 506 56 00 and 91 506 56 18 fax: 91 506 57 06 http://www.mec.es/mecd/jsp/plantilla.jsp?id=82&area=titulos 39 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 40 11. CULTURE Cultural and social life in Spain is the product of the multiple external influences that it received through the course of history, which explains its great wealth and diversity. All cultural expressions receive the direct support of the Government through the Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Great names in the Spanish arts have been, among others, in painting: Velázquez, Goya, Murillo, Zurbarán, Sorolla, Picasso, Dalí or Miró; in classical literature: Cervantes, Quevedo, Lope de Vega; in music, Manuel de Falla and Albéniz. Spain possesses an immense historic-artistic, bibliographic and documentary heritage that holds the key to its national collective life. It is the third most important country in the world in number of monuments declared to be of world-wide historical value. Madrid has, among others, three great museums with universal artistic masterpieces: the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Reina Sofía National Art Centre Museum. In recent years the Spanish literature industry has developed at a vertiginous rate. Additionally, the literature industry is used to spread the Spanish language, which gains more and more ground every day throughout the world. The Instituto Cervantes is very important in promoting and teaching Spanish and in spreading Spanish and Latin American culture. Spain celebrates Christmas, Holy Week and Carnival. All towns and cities also have their own patron saints’ days whose festivities last several days. Some of the best known festivals include Los Sanfermines in Pamplona, Las Fallas in Valencia, the April Fair in Seville and the San Isidro Fair in Madrid. Cities publish guides with information on all cultural activities (concerts, exhibitions, conferences, museums, painting, theatre, etc.). There are a numerous festivals, leisure and recreation activities available. The municipal tourism offices provide information on historical and cultural subjects. 40 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 41 Living and working in SPAIN Regarding sport, most Spanish cities have excellent sport facilities. For entertainment, football is most popular, but basketball, handball, cycling and athletics are also popular. Other sports that are practised regularly include golf, tennis, skiing, sport fishing, nautical sports such as sailing and, recently, adventure sports are proliferating, such as free flight in ultralights, paragliding or canyoning. In the gastronomical section, one of Spain’s greatest attractions is the quality of its food and the variety of products available. There is no real “national food”, rather a variety of regional foods. Paella, Galician “empanada” and “caldo”, “fabada” from Asturias, “callos” from Madrid and the Spanish omelette are some of the most representative dishes. Foreigners should keep in mind that eating habits may be very different from their country of origin, especially regarding hours, since meals are generally eaten later than normal. Most people work from 9:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00, so many people are forced to eat in restaurants. Spain is still a country in which the family is fundamental. Although friendship and work are very important, family takes precedence over all. This tradition is apparent in many ways, and in this case it tends towards patriarchal organisation structures. You can find more information on cultural subjects at: Ministry of Culture (“Ministerio de Cultura”) Secretariat of State for Culture (“Secretaría de Estado de Cultura”) Telephone: 91-701 71 56 or 91-701 71 57 http://www.mcu.es/ The Youth Institute (INJUVE) collects and disseminates information of interest to young people: youth cards, hostels, exchanges, co-operation, volunteering, associations, studies, employment, housing... It also collaborates with nearly 3,000 Youth Information Centres located around the country, which depend on the Autonomous Communities, Town Halls and a variety of social initiatives. http://www.injuve.mtas.es It is a good idea to find out as much information as possible on a variety of general subjects before arriving in Spain. For more information, contact the Spanish Tourism Office or the Spanish Embassy or Consulate. http://www.tourspain.es 41 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 42 12. LEGAL ASSISTANCE During your stay in Spain you are subject to Spanish law. If you have any legal problems, contact your country’s embassy. Also, if you feel your rights as a community citizen are not being respected, you may contact the SOLVIT network, created by the European Commission to ensure compliance with community legislation. http://europa.eu.int/solvit e-mail:[email protected] The Spanish Constitution and its related laws establish a series of fundamental rights that are fully guaranteed. When faced with any legal problem, contact a lawyer. If you do not have one, request a legal aid lawyer from the Lawyers Association. All detainees in any police and judicial proceedings have the right to be assisted by a lawyer. Any person who is detained must immediately be informed of their rights and the reason for the arrest, and they may not be forced to make a declaration. Preventive arrest may last only as long as strictly necessary to make the inquiries required to clarify the facts. In any case, after a maximum period of 72 hours, the detainee must be released or charged. An additional legal guarantee to the right of personal freedom is the “habeas corpus” procedure, which provides for the immediate release of all people detained, who must appear before the judge who will determine the legality or illegality of the arrest. 42 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 43 Living and working in SPAIN 13. USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS AND ADDRESSES Embassies in Madrid: Germany: http://www.embajada-alemania.es Belgium : Tel.91 577 63 00 http://www.embajada-online.com Fax 91 431 81 66 Austria: Tel.945565315 http://www.embajada-online.com Fax 91 597 35 79 Denmark: Tel.91 431 84 45 http://www.embajadadinamarca.es Fax 91 431 91 68 Finland: Tel.921 319 61 72 http://www.finlandia.org Fax 91 308 39 01 France: Tel.91 423 89 00 http://www.ambafrance-es.org Fax 91 423 89 01 Greece: Tel.91 564 46 53 http://www.embajada-online.com Fax 91 564 46 68 Ireland Tel.91 436 40 93 http://www.embajada-online.com Fax 91 435 16 77 Island Tel.91 373 15 06 Fax 91 373 92 65 Italy: Tel.91 423 33 00 http://www.ambitaliamadrid.org Fax 91 575 77 76 Luxembourg Fax 91 577 48 26 Tel.91 435 91 64 43 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 44 Norway Tel.91 310 31 16 http://www.emb-noruega.es Fax 91 310 43 26 Netherlands Tel.91 359 09 14 http://www.embajada-online.com Fax 91 359 21 50 Portugal Tel.91 782 49 60 Fax 91 782 49 72 http://www.embajadaportugal-madrid.org United Kingdom Tel.91 700 82 00 http://www.ukinspain.com Fax 91 702 20 40 Sweden Tel. 91 702 20 00 http://www.embajadasuecia.es Fax 91 702 20 40 Euroinfo. European Commission. Representation in Spain Tel.91 423 80 00 Fax 91 576 03 87 http://europa.eu.int/spain General Central Government Information: Tax Information: 901 33 55 33 Labour and Social Security Information: 900 16 65 65 Home Office (“Ministerio del Interior”) Citizen Information Office: 900 15 00 00 State Public Employment Service (INEM) Condesa de Venadito, 9 28027-MADRID Tel.: 91 585 98 88. Fax: 91 377 58 81/ 91 377 5887 http://www.inem.es National Social Security Institute Subdirectorate General for International Relations (International Agreements). Padre Damián, 4-6 28036-MADRID Tel.: 91 5688300 http://www.seg-social.es 44 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 45 Living and working in SPAIN Internet Addresses: Addresses related to each section have been indicated throughout the document. The following is a list of others that may also be of use: Public Employment Services: EURES: http://europa.eu.int/eures State Public Employment Service http://www.inem.es Autonomous Community employment services: Andalucia http://www.juntadeandalucia.es/servicioandaluzdeempleo Aragón http://www.portal.aragob.es Asturias http://www.princast.es/trabajastur Canarias http://www.gobiernodecanarias.org/empleo Cantabria http://www.empleacantabria.com Castilla-La Mancha http://www.sepecam.jccm.es/ Castilla y León http://www.empleocastillayleon.com Cataluña http://www.gencat.net/treball Comunidad de Madrid http://www.madrid.org/servicio_regional_empleo/ Comunidad Valenciana http://www.servef.es Extremadura http://www.empleaextremadura.com Galicia http://www.xunta.es/emprego/portal.htm Illes Balears http://infosoib.caib.es La Rioja http://www.larioja.org Navarra http://www.cfnavarra.es/webgn/sou/instituc/cp/ areas/trabajo/snemp.htm Región de Murcia http://www.sefcarm.es 45 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 46 Employment on the Internet: http://www.monster.es http://www.infojobs.net http://www.trabajos.com http://www.infoempleo.com http://www.laboris.net http://www.cybersearch.es http://www.empleo.com http://www.todotrabajo.com http://www.trabajo.org http://www.recursoshumanos.net/ http://www.acciontrabajo.com/ http://empleo.paginas-amarillas.es http://www.oficinaempleo.com http://intoko.es http://www.lanbide.net Specialised and/or sectorial Labour Exchanges: Executives and qualified professionals http://www.canalcv.com Hotel, Tourism and Leisure http://www.bolsindetrabajo.com http://www.turijobs.com http://www.turiempleo.com Teachers and Educators http://www.internenes.com/empleo http://www.educajob.com Computers and Information Technology http://www.novanotio.es Work for people with disabilities http://www.mercadis.com/ University students and recent graduates http://www.empleo.universia.es Secretaries http://wwwsecretariaplus.com Part-time employment http://www.empleotiempoparcial.com/ 46 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 47 Living and working in SPAIN Temporary Employment Agencies (TEA) ACCESS ADECCO ALTA GESTION ATTEMPORA CEPEDE FASTER RANDSTAD TEMPORAL TRANSFER http://www.accessett.com http://www.adecco.es http://www.altagestion.es http://www.attempora.es http://www.cepede.com http://www.faster.es http://randstad.es http://www.temporaltransfer.com Media: El Mundo El País Empleo ABC Electrónico Empleo La Razón El Periódico La Vanguardia Empleo La Estrella Digital “Sur in English” Heraldo de Aragón Empleo Radio Televisión Española TVE programme “Aquí hay trabajo” Busca medios Press Journal http://www.elmundo.es/Empleo http://www.elmundo.es/cobranded/empleo http://www.elpais.es http://www.excoge.com http://www.abc.es http://todotrabajo.abc.es/ http://www.larazon.es/ http://www.elperiodico.es/ http://www.lavanguardia.es http://lavanguardia.servijob.com http://www.estrelladigital.es/ http://www.surinenglish.com http://www.heraldo.es http://empleo.heraldo.es http://www.rtve.es http://www.rtve.es/tve/program/empleo/main.html http://www.buscamedios.com http://www.journalismnet.com 47 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 48 Company Data Company search engine Export companies Europages Business creation Chambers of Commerce Your Europe - Business Spanish SME Confederation http://camerdata.es http://directorio.camaras.org http://www.europages.es http://www.ventanillaempresarial.org/ http://www.vue.es http://www.camaras.org http://europa.eu.int/business/en/index.html http://www.cepyme.es Working conditions: 2004 Labour Guide Salaries http://www.mtas.es/Guia2004/portada.htm http://www.tusalario.es Central Government: Administration Web Site: http://www.administracion.es Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (“Ministerio de Trabajo y Asuntos Sociales”) http://www.mtas.es Ministry of the Public Authorities (“Ministerio de Administraciones Públicas”) http://www.map.es Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Co-operation (“Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores y Cooperación”) http://www.maec.es Ministry of Finance and Economy (“Ministerio de Economía y Hacienda”): http://www.minhac.es Ministry of Education and Science (“Ministerio de Educación y Ciencia”): http://www.mec.es Ministry of Justice (“Ministerio de Justicia”) http://www.mju.es Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs (“Ministerio de Sanidad y Consumo”) http://www.msc.es Home Office (“Ministerio del Interior”): http://www.mir.es 48 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 49 Living and working in SPAIN Ministry of Public Works (“Ministerio de Fomento) : http://www.mfom.es Ministry of Culture (“Ministerio de Cultura”): http://www.mcu.es Ministry of Agriculture, Fishing and Food (“Ministerio de Agricultura, Pesca y Alimentación”): http://www.mapya.es Ministry of the Environment (“Ministerio de Medio Ambiente”): http://www.mma.es Ministry of Housing (“Ministerio de Vivienda”): http://www.mviv.es Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Trade (“Ministerio de Industria, Turismo y Comercio”): http://www.mityc.es National Statistical Institute http://ine.es EU Qualifications Recognition http://wwwn.mec.es/mecd/jsp/ plantilla.jsp?id=8&area=titulos Community Status (Home Office) h t t p : / / w w w. m i r. e s / e x t r a n j e / extregcomunitario.htm Taxes http://www.aeat.es/ Youth Institute (“Instituto de la Juventud”) http://www.mtas.es/injuve/ Autonomous Administrations: Junta de Andalucía (gobierno de Andalucía): http://www.juntadeandalucia.es Comunidad autónoma de Aragón (gobierno de Aragón): http://www.aragob.es Comunidad autónoma de Asturias (Principado de Asturias) : http://www.princast.es Comunidad autónoma de Baleares: http://www.caib.es Comunidad autónoma de Canarias: http://www.gobcan.es Comunidad autónoma de Cantabria: http://www.gobcantabria.es 49 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 50 Comunidad autónoma de Castilla-La Mancha: http://www.jccm.es Comunidad autónoma de Castilla y León: http://www.jcyl.es Comunidad autónoma de Cataluña: http://www.gencat.es Comunidad autónoma de Extremadura: http://www.juntaex.es Comunidad autónoma de Galicia: http://www.xunta.es Comunidad autónoma de Madrid: http://www.madrid.org Comunidad autónoma de Murcia: http://www.carm.es Comunidad autónoma de Navarra: http://www.cfnavarra.es Comunidad autónoma del País Vasco: http://www.euskadi.net Comunidad autónoma de La Rioja: http://www.larioja.org Comunidad autónoma de Valencia: http://www.gva.es Ciudad autónoma de Ceuta: http://www.ciceuta.es Ciudad autónoma de Melilla: http://www.camelilla.es Accommodation and Travel: Finding a flat http://www.vivendum.com http://www.excoge.com http://www.intoko.es Youth hostels http://www.reaj.com Sleeping in Spain http://www.sleepinspain.com/ Travel http://www.viamichelin.com Plans, maps http://www.maporama.com http://ismap.com Air transport http://www.iberia.com 50 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 51 Living and working in SPAIN Rail http://www.renfe.es Tourism, Culture, Accommodation, Travel. Official site http://www.tourspain.es/ Others http://www.sispain.org/ http://www.red2000.com/spain/1index.html http://www.spaindata.com Housing, Information on Foundation Institute of Foreign Owners http://www.fipe.org/ Prices (Valuation Society) http://www.st-tasacion.net/boletin.html Education Education http://www.worldstudent.com/esp/exterior/espana/index.shtml http://www.educaweb.com http://www.eurydice.org Universities http://wwwuniversia.es Learning Spanish (I. Cervantes) http://eee.cervantes.es/ The Spanish language page http://www.el-castellano.com/index.html Postgraduate studies http://navegadorcolon.org Scholarships http://estudiasotrabajas.com Online Spanish courses http://ave.cervantes.es/ 51 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 52 Other information sources: EURES (Info. on living and working conditions) http://europa.eu.int/eures Your Europe - Citizens Street maps http://citizens.eu.int http://callejero.terra.es/ http://callejero.paginas-amarillas.es Foreign embassies in Spain http://www.maec.es/ Youth Institute (Eryica network) http://www.mtas.es/injuve/ Yellow Pages http://www.paginas-amarillas.es Segunda Mano (job ads, property...) http://www.segundamano.es Anuntis (job ads, property) http://www.anuntis.com 52 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 20/2/06 16:20 Página 53 Living and working in SPAIN 14. DON’T FORGET... Before travelling to Spain to look for work or for a recruitment interview, there are some documents which you must not forget: • Valid EU/EES passport or identification document. • Translated Curriculum Vitae (several copies), cover letters and references from previous employment, academic qualifications and courses. • “E” forms or European Health Card issued by the Social Security in your country • Forms E-301 and E-303, as appropriate. • Photocopy of your birth certificate and family certificate • Certified translation of qualifications, as appropriate. • Other permits and licenses that may be appropriate, such as a driving license. Before accepting a job, make sure you: • Have a valid EU/EES passport or identification document. • Understand the terms and conditions of the employment contract. It is important that you clearly understand who will be responsible for the travel and accommodation expenses: you or the employer. • Know the method of payment and the salary frequency. • Have accommodation in Spain • Have appropriate health coverage. • Have sufficient funds until you receive your first salary or to return home if necessary. • Are affiliated with the social security. Before returning, it is important that you: • Request the E 301 document from your employment office, which certifies your contributions in Spain for any future benefits that you may have a right to. • Ensure that you still have all of the personal documentation that certifies your working relation in Spain (employment contract, payslips, etc...). • Settle your tax situation with the tax agency. Remember that processing these documents may take time, so you should request them as soon as possible. 53 LIVING WORKING SPAIN ok 54 20/2/06 16:20 Página 54