Volunteering in Spain: Legal stay authorization explained

Spain has an extensive network of organizations committed to solidarity-driven causes such as social inclusion, environmental protection, education, and development cooperation. Many of these initiatives rely on volunteers willing to offer their time, effort, and skills altruistically. If you are a non-EU national and want to join one of these programs, you will need to apply for a stay authorization for volunteer services.

⏺️ What is the stay authorization for volunteer services?

This authorization allows non-EU nationals to legally stay in Spain for more than 90 days to participate in a non-profit volunteer program that serves the public interest. The activity is not remunerated, although reimbursement of expenses or pocket money is allowed.

This type of authorization is granted when the volunteer work is part of a program organized by legally constituted and officially registered entities, including those participating in the European Solidarity Corps.

⏺️ Requirements to apply for the authorization

Personal requirements

Not be a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, or a family member subject to EU citizen status.
Not be in an irregular situation in Spain.
Not appear as inadmissible in countries with which Spain has agreements in force.
Not pose a threat to public order, security, or public health.
Not suffer from serious diseases with public health implications (as per the 2005 International Health Regulations).
Have no criminal record in the last five years (if the stay exceeds six months and the applicant is of legal age).

Volunteer program requirements

Be accepted into a volunteer program through a signed agreement with the organizing entity.
The agreement must include: description of activities, duration, schedule, supervision conditions, coverage for travel, board and lodging, liability insurance, and training (if applicable).
The entity must be legally registered with the relevant authorities.

Financial means

Demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover your stay and return to your home country.
At least 100% of the monthly IPREM is required, unless accommodation has been prepaid.

Health insurance

Have public or private health insurance authorized to operate in Spain, with coverage equivalent to the public health system.

⏺️ Application procedure

The application must be submitted in person at the Spanish Consular Office or Diplomatic Mission in the applicant’s country of residence.

The maximum decision period is one month from the date of submission.
If approved, the visa must be collected within two months.
The duration of the stay will match that of the volunteer program, with a maximum limit of one year.
For stays longer than six months, the applicant must apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) at the local police station in Spain.

⏺️ Can you work with this authorization?

Yes, you can work as an employee or self-employed, but under specific conditions:

The job must be compatible with the volunteer program.
The working hours cannot exceed 30 hours per week.
The work authorization is valid for the same duration as the stay authorization.

⏺️ Need help managing your volunteer stay in Spain?

At ARC Legal Abogados, we guide you through every step of the process — from preparing your documentation to submitting your application. If you already have a confirmed program or are exploring your options, get in touch with us and we’ll analyze your case in detail.

🇪🇸 Prefer reading in Spanish? Read the article here: Voluntariado en España para extranjeros: cómo obtener la autorización de estancia

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration regulations are subject to frequent interpretative and administrative changes. At ARC Legal, we strive to keep our information up to date and based on official sources, but we always recommend consulting with a qualified professional before starting any legal process or making decisions based on this content. If you need tailored advice, feel free to contact our team.