Autorización de residencia para búsqueda de empleo o inicio de proyecto empresarial
Stay after graduation to look for work or start a business
Remain in Spain for up to 24 months after qualifying higher education to look for suitable work or prepare a business project, without work rights from this permit itself.
- Who it is for
- Non-EU citizens
- Legal deadline
- 60 days before to 90 days after qualifying study authorization expiry
- How long it takes
- 24 months, non-renewable
- Cost
- current government fee
- Where
- Online · Oficina de Extranjería / Ministerio
Steps
- Confirm completion of qualifying higher education in Spain at least at EQF Level 6 and a prior qualifying long-duration study authorization.inclusion.gob.es
- Prepare financial-means and health-cover evidence and file EX-26 within the official window.inclusion.gob.es
- If suitable employment or a business project is secured, move into the appropriate work/residence authorization before starting work.inclusion.gob.es
That is the whole procedure
If you would rather go through yours with someone, describe it to NEXO first. You will find out what applies to you, and whether you need a person.
What to bring
- EX-26 and proof of qualifying completed higher education/current study-status history.inclusion.gob.es
- Financial means and qualifying health coverage.inclusion.gob.es
What the official sources say
The permit lasts up to 24 months and is non-renewable.inclusion.gob.es
The authorization itself does not authorize work.inclusion.gob.es
The current financial test uses 100% IPREM monthly for the principal applicant, with the published accommodation/family adjustments.inclusion.gob.es
The Ministry publishes a 20-day resolution period with the stated positive-silence rule.inclusion.gob.es
What we see in practice
NEXO's own observations. They are not official information and carry no source.
- Label this very clearly as “job-search residence, not a work permit” in every UI surface.
Questions people ask
Can every former student use it?
No. The completed study must meet the current higher-education level and prior-status requirements.inclusion.gob.es
Can I work while holding it?
No. Move to the appropriate work authorization before starting employment/self-employment.inclusion.gob.es
When can I file?
The published window is 60 days before through 90 days after expiry of the qualifying study authorization, with the late-filing caveat.inclusion.gob.es
What gets it refused or delayed
- The completed studies/status do not qualify, the filing window is missed, or required means/health cover are not established.inclusion.gob.es
Does any of this sound like you?
- The study level is unclear, the person has already started work, or the correct next work/business route is uncertain.
Cases like these need someone to look at the details. Describe yours to NEXO and we will tell you what applies and what to do next.