20 Nov What Are the Requirements for Internships in Spain?
Internships in Spain are a popular choice for students seeking to jumpstart their careers while immersing in a new culture. Established Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona stand out as ideal destinations, thanks to their thriving industries and Spain’s recognition among the top 10 countries with the best work-life balance in 2024.
If you’re considering an internship in Spain but aren’t sure where to start, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! This guide will walk you through the essentials of Spain internship programs, so that you’re fully prepared for an unforgettable adventure in cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll find in this guide:
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- Visa requirements
- Language skills
- Accommodation and expenses
- Planning your internship agenda
- Packing essentials
Visa Requirements for Interning in Spain
Depending where you’re from, you may or may not need to obtain a visa to intern in Spain.
Generally, if you’re from the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), you might not need a visa if your internship lasts less than 90 days. If you’re staying for over three months, you’ll need to register with Spanish authorities.
Non-EU students usually need a visa to proceed with their Spanish internship. Factors like the type of internship and the duration will indicate which kind you’ll need—a study visa or an internship visa—but the requirements to get one typically include:
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- Visa application form
- Passport
- Proof of acceptance into your Spain internship program
- Proof of financial means
Make sure to confirm the specific visa requirements for your nationality and check for updates on visa regulations by contacting the Spanish embassy or consulate in your home country.
It’s also important to start your visa application process early, as it may take several weeks or even months to complete.
Language Skills for Your Internship in Spain
There are over 490 million speakers of Spanish worldwide, and it ranks as the second most-spoken language in the United States. These numbers highlight the value of learning Spanish, and what better way to learn it than interning in Spain for a month or two?
While being fluent isn’t a requirement—many internships are available in English—having a grasp of Spanish can improve your experience by a lot. It’s the country’s primary language, so knowing even basic phrases can help you interact with local colleagues and navigate daily life more easily.
Accommodation and Expenses for Interns in Spain
When planning your Spain internship, it’s essential to budget for key expenses like housing, daily meals, and transportation. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Housing
Accommodation can be one of your biggest expenses. Apartments, shared flats, and student residences may vary in cost depending on the neighborhood and amenities.
If you plan to stay in Madrid for an internship or Barcelona, securing your housing early on is highly recommended as these areas are pretty popular among students.
Meals
All over Spain, you will find many cafes and tapas bars that offer options for quick bites and authentic local cuisine. In Madrid and Barcelona, costs could range from €10 per meal for budget foodies, to €50 in mid-range restaurants.
Transportation
Both Madrid and Barcelona are highly walkable cities, but if you wish to use public transportation, you can opt for their easily accessible metros, buses, and metered taxis.
Metros have different types of tickets—from single trips to unlimited access—to cater to your specific needs. A single ticket in Barcelona starts at €2.55, while Madrid’s flexible and reloadable Multi card costs €2.50 on its own.
Agenda for Your Internship in Spain
Spain is known for its stunning architecture, artistic heritage, and culinary scene. As you prepare for your internship, create a bucket list of must-see spots and must-do activities to make the most of your time there.
To help you get started, here are a couple of places that you just can’t miss in Madrid:
Puerta del Sol
This historic square is the heart of Madrid, both geographically and culturally. It’s surrounded by iconic landmarks including the famous clock that rings in the New Year and the Kilometre Zero marker, the starting point for Spain’s road network. If you want to go exploring in the city, head to Puerta del Sol and go from there.
Gran Vía
Gran Vía is a busy street that buzzes day and night. Known as Madrid’s Broadway, it’s packed with theaters, shopping centers, and an electric nightlife—offering a little something for everyone who wants to experience the city’s lively energy.
Meanwhile, Barcelona has its own set of unique experiences and iconic sites:
Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces: La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell
Gaudí is a world-renowned architect, and La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell are among his most famous works.
The iconic La Sagrada Familia is the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world, and despite being incomplete, it stands proud and grand. Meanwhile, Park Güell, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an architectural wonder with its breathtaking gardens and colorful mosaic designs.
El Born District
If you’re looking for a spot where you can live like a local and avoid swarms of tourists, visit the district of El Born. Charming cafes and local shops line its narrow streets, and will totally give you a taste of life in Barcelona!
Spain’s vibrant culture will play a huge part in your internship abroad experience, so think about your interests and prioritize a few can’t-miss items. Of course, leave room for spontaneity, too! Some of the best experiences happen when you least expect them.
Packing Essentials for Your Spain Internship
When preparing what to bring for your international internship in Spain, it would be best to keep your chosen city’s weather and work culture in mind. Here are a few essentials you need to have in your luggage:
Clothing that match the weather
Spain’s most famous cities are warmer than much of Europe, so if you’re doing a summer internship in Barcelona or Madrid, come prepared—we all know how uncomfortable it can be to dress for the wrong weather. Summer clothes and a light jacket should cover you for most days, but don’t underestimate the winter chill, too!
Madrid is a landlocked city located in the heart of Spain and on top of the high plateau known as the Meseta Central. Its altitude and non-coastal location result in the city often seeing a high contrast between its hot and cold seasons—the heat reaching 33°C in July and August, then dropping to 10°C in December and January.
On the other hand, Barcelona has more of a Mediterranean climate—hot summers as high as 29℃ and cool winters as low as 4℃. August is its hottest month, October and November see frequent rains, March is the least crowded, and January can get quite cold.
Appropriate work clothes
There’s no single attire that fits all. Some workplaces require formal business attire, while others allow business casual. Your industry may heavily influence your company’s dress code, but ultimately, it comes down to their policies. To stay flexible, pack a few versatile, professional pieces.
Comfortable walking shoes
Like we said, Madrid and Barcelona are incredibly walkable. Prepare to go on walking adventures as you immerse yourself in either of these cities, and make sure your options are cobblestone street-friendly, too!
Sunscreen and Hat
Spain’s sun, especially during the summer, can get really intense, so pack high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and protected.
Electronics and adapters
Spain uses the European two-prong plug, so make sure you bring adapters for your devices. Pre-downloading offline maps or translation apps can also help you navigate these cities more easily. Thank us later!
Start Your Spanish Internship Adventure with Absolute Internship
Spain internship programs are a very unique opportunity for both your budding career and personal growth. Absolute Internship offers comprehensive programs that can connect you with Madrid or Barcelona companies aligned with your goals and preferences.
Our Onsite Internship Program includes housing in high-end student residences, 24/7 onsite support during your entire internship period, and cultural activities like paella-making workshops and day trips to historic towns. We want you to feel as prepared and confident as you can be when you arrive in Spain.
Whether you envision yourself in the bustling capital of Madrid or the creative city of Barcelona, Absolute Internship is here to support every step of your adventure. Reach out today and let’s start planning your unforgettable and life-changing internship experience!
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