Any advice for an American citizen looking to work in Barcelona, Spain this upcoming summer 2008?

Question

I am planning to go to Barcelona, Spain to work this upcoming summer. I was wondering if anybody has had any experience find a job there as a foreigner, specifically an American citizen. I would like to stay longer than the summer if possible, possibly up to a year, but I"ll take what I can get. Thanks for your help!

Answer 1

I am an American who has been living and working legally in Spain since 1992.  As another person said, it is extremely difficult, but not impossible, to work legally in the country.  The fact of the matter is that most potential employers do not want to waste their time legalizing anyone who is just going to be around for a little while.   But with perseverance you may find someone who is interested in taking you on as an intern...or working illegally in the service industry.

Another option is to come to study "something" and you can them work in the related field for obtaining job experience.

Answer 2

ah! my people.

good choice my friend. no experience, seeing as im in 8th grade, but this is obvious--learn spanish. try teaching english to kids.

Answer 3

I understand that the visa situation is this:  if you are NOT a member of the EU, you can´t get one.  Can´t get a visa, can´t work legally, not on your own.

That said, you may be able to get something through CIEE, or some similar exchange program.  Try searching Work Exchange Programs.  link to Spain.

Answer 4

long hours little euro

Answer 5

What kind of work are you looking for?   If it is the temporary, summer work type, it will be difficult to get legally.