Catalonia holds a significant position within the research system at a European and global level.

This system is comprised of universities, research centres, large research infrastructures, hospital institutions, science parks and technological, reference networks and research groups.

Moreover, Catalonia is home to 22% of the biotechnology companies in Spain and 45% of the pharmaceutical companies, led by the biggest in the sector. The success of the sector is based on a model of research excellence, education, entrepreneurship and innovation.

For this reason, Catalonia offers plenty of attractive careers options for researchers.

Barcelona, a research capital

Barcelona is a leading city in the study of clinical and human health where an extensive network of university hospitals resides.

In addition to the research and innovation network, Barcelona has a lot more to offer!

Arriving to Barcelona

When you start living and working in Barcelona, there are a series of paperwork you have to complete to be able to work and formalize your status in Spain.

• NIE/TIE: Spanish ID for foreigners – Important! Before coming to Spain you must check what documentation you need to be able to work/reside here.
• Social Security Number: registration necessary to be able to work
• Empadronament: formal registration as a resident of the city
• Healthcare card: to be able to access Spanish public health service
• Bank account: depending on the length of your stay you can decide to open what type of bank account

You can find a thorough list of all requirements to live and work in Barcelona here.

Barcelona International Welcome Desk

The Barcelona International Welcome Desk is a support service, free of charge, for international talent who want to live in the city or who have recently settled here.

It provides practical information on living in Barcelona, such as:

• Residence and work permits: visas and authorizations
• Identification documents: NIE, TIE, etc
• Other important formalities upon arrival in the city
• Access to housing, healthcare and education
• Mobility, public transport and vehicles
• Steps for setting up your business, investing or working in Barcelona
• Tax issues
• Other practical information on living in Barcelona

You can also book an appointment to get further information.

You can find additional information on the Catalonian Local Government website.

Welcome Pack

Within the Barcelona International Welcome Desk’s website you can also find a Welcome Pack that gathers concise and useful information about what Barcelona has to offer.

Legalisation and translation of documents

For some formalities required to live in Barcelona, especially related to immigration, you will have to provide documents issued by public authorities in your country of origin.

Verify which procedure might affect your situation here.

Recognition and validation of studies

In order to work and/or continue your studies in Spain, you might need to validate your studies in other countries to be valid here.

Check which procedure you might need to go through here.

Taxes

As an individual staying and/or working in Spain, there is a series of taxes that may apply to you.

You can check all basic information regarding taxes here.

Accommodation

There is a variety of options and prices when it comes to housing in Barcelona.