Finding a job in Spain is not as easy as it is in the UK - the Spanish unemployment rate is still relatively high, especially outside the main cities and in Andalucía. There is however a reasonable amount of work to be found in the tourist areas of Spain, especially if they can also speak Spanish well. Bar and shop work in those areas is also available for non-Spanish speaking expats, but you will need to start your job search at or before Easter time. It is also relatively easy to find jobs in the construction and IT industries.

The best way to prepare for a job in Spain is to learn Spanish. Additionally, it is worth doing some research into the differences in pay and working practices between your country and Spain.

Working as a Nurse / Health Professional in Spain

For all permanent public sector jobs in Spain, you will need to take the oposiciones - public exams which are held every year and for which places are limited. However, you can get short-term contract work, as long as you do the following:

• Get a copy of your registration certificate
• Get an official translation of the above
• Contact the Ministerio de Educacion y Ciencias for an official certificate.
• Register at the bolsa de trabajo at your local hospital

Bear in mind that the above can take up to a year

Catering

In tourist areas, many expats work as waiters, bar staff and cooks. The best way to get these jobs is to ask around locally, keep an eye out for posters and look in local newspapers. Jobs in the catering trade in Spain do not tend to be advertised online. Note that pay may be lower than you are used to, and start looking for work just before Easter.