Procedures before starting the trip

Researchers who wish to be hired in Spain within the framework of the academic sector should make their request for homologation of their university degree well in advance, as explained on the web page of the Spanish Ministry of Education and Vocational Training. The so-called homologation process implies the granting of official validity in Spain –in academic and professional terms– of a foreign qualification. Please bear in mind that the homologation process differs from the equivalence process of a foreign university degree in Spain because this second possibility only equates the foreign degree to a Spanish undergraduate / postgraduate degree in academic terms.

Trámites antes de iniciar el viajeIn addition to preparing the academic record to be able to work here, please carefully consult the recommendations for traveling to Spain of the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation.

These recommendations indicate that foreign researchers must have the following valid documentation: (a) passport, (b) visa, and (c) additional documentation that justifies the reason for the move to Spain. The traveler could also be required to demonstrate that they have the economic means to stay in Spain, as well as a report confirming their good health. In addition, entry may be denied if the traveler does not meet other possible additional requirements. The necessary information can be obtained before embarking on the trip at the Embassy of Spain in the country of origin, as well as at the Ministry of the Interior. It is also advisable to contact the Embassy of the country of origin in Spain to inform about the arrival date and the duration of the stay by the incoming researcher.

It is recommended that those who are eligible apply for the European Health Card, which is free. This card allows foreign researchers to receive the health benefits that are necessary, from a medical point of view, during a temporary stay in any of the 27 EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland under the same conditions and at the same time. same price (if applicable) as the rest of the insured in the host country. However, please note that such access is not an alternative to travel insurance because it does not cover private healthcare or costs such as the flight back to the country of origin or the loss / theft of belongings. On the other hand, applicants who are not eligible are required to purchase comprehensive health and travel insurance. When it comes to vaccinations, it is strongly recommended to be protected against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hydrophobia, Polio, Measles and Rubella (MMR), Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis), Chickenpox, Shingles, Pneumonia, and Flu. For more information on vaccination, please consult the studies carried out by the World Health Organization, which establishes that the evolution of health status indicators in Spain has been favorable since the 1970s (with one of the world's highest life expectancies and declining mortality rates from the mid-1970s to the EU average). The main causes of death in Spain (since 1970) have been cardiovascular, tumor and respiratory diseases.