How to Become a Registered Nurse in Spain
Guide for nurses to work in Spain: licensing, visa, salary, demand & degree recognition process
Spain is a popular destination for foreign healthcare professionals due to its high-quality healthcare system and demand for skilled nurses. Whether you are an EU citizen or from a non-EU country, becoming a registered nurse in Spain requires fulfilling specific eligibility, qualification, language, and immigration requirements. In this guide, we will outline the essential steps to obtain a nursing license in Spain, the necessary exams, and the salary expectations for different nursing positions.
1. Eligibility Requirements
To work as a nurse in Spain, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by the Spanish Ministry of Health and the Consejo General de Enfermería de España (General Council of Nursing of Spain). The main eligibility requirements include:
- A recognized nursing degree from a university or accredited nursing school.
- Proficiency in the Spanish language.
- Legal residency status in Spain or the EU.
- Professional registration with the regional nursing board.
- Compliance with Spain’s healthcare laws and ethical guidelines.
2. Nursing Qualification Requirements
The qualification process depends on whether you are an EU/EEA nurse or a non-EU/EEA nurse.
For EU/EEA Nurses
If you obtained your nursing qualification in an EU/EEA country, Spain follows the EU directive on mutual recognition of professional qualifications. This means you can apply for recognition of your nursing degree through the Ministry of Health (Ministerio de Sanidad). The steps include:
- Submitting your degree and academic transcripts for validation.
- Providing proof of work experience (if applicable).
- Registering with the regional nursing board (Colegio de Enfermería) where you plan to work.
For Non-EU/EEA Nurses
If you completed your nursing education outside the EU/EEA, the process is more complex and requires homologation (degree validation). The steps are:
- Degree Recognition: Apply for homologation through the Spanish Ministry of Education.
- Competency Exams: You may be required to take additional courses or exams if your qualification is not fully equivalent to Spanish nursing degrees.
- Nursing License Application: After degree recognition, apply for professional recognition through the Ministry of Health.
- Registration with the Regional Nursing Board: This is necessary to practice legally in Spain.
3. Nursing License Tests in Spain
Spain does not have a universal national nursing exam like the NCLEX in the USA. However, non-EU nurses may be required to take an Aptitude Test or complete an Adaptation Course depending on the evaluation of their academic qualifications.
Aptitude Test for Non-EU Nurses
If the Spanish authorities determine that your foreign qualification does not meet the necessary standards, you may be asked to take a competency test. This typically includes:
- Theoretical knowledge assessment (nursing ethics, Spanish healthcare laws, patient care, etc.).
- Practical evaluation (clinical skills, patient management, and emergency response).
Alternatively, some candidates may be required to complete a supervised adaptation period in a Spanish healthcare institution.
4. Language Requirements for Nurses in Spain
Proficiency in Spanish is a critical requirement for foreign nurses, as Spanish is the primary language used in healthcare settings.
- Minimum Requirement: B2 level in Spanish (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages – CEFR).
- Language Certificate: Some employers may require official Spanish proficiency tests such as DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) or SIELE.
- Medical Spanish Skills: Additional training in medical Spanish is recommended to ensure effective communication with patients and colleagues.
5. Immigration Requirements for Foreign Nurses
For EU/EEA Nurses
- No work visa required.
- Must register with Spanish authorities and obtain a Foreigner Identity Number (NIE).
For Non-EU/EEA Nurses
- A work visa is mandatory before arriving in Spain.
- To obtain a work visa, you must first secure a job offer from a Spanish healthcare employer.
- Your employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf.
- Once the work permit is approved, you must apply for a residence visa through the Spanish consulate in your home country.
- Upon arrival, register with local immigration authorities and obtain a residence card (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero – TIE).
6. Salary Ranges for Nurses in Spain
The salary of nurses in Spain varies based on factors such as experience, location, and type of healthcare institution.
Average Nursing Salaries in Spain
| Nursing Position | Monthly Salary (€) | Annual Salary (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level Nurse | 1,500 – 1,800 | 18,000 – 22,000 |
| Experienced Nurse | 1,800 – 2,500 | 22,000 – 30,000 |
| Nurse Specialist | 2,500 – 3,500 | 30,000 – 42,000 |
| Nurse Manager | 3,000 – 4,500 | 36,000 – 54,000 |
| Private Hospital Nurse | 2,000 – 3,000 | 24,000 – 36,000 |
| Public Hospital Nurse | 1,800 – 2,500 | 22,000 – 30,000 |
- Nurses working in public hospitals generally receive a fixed salary based on government scales.
- Those in private hospitals or specialized fields (such as ICU, anesthesia, or oncology) tend to earn higher salaries.
- Nurses in Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia typically earn higher wages due to the cost of living.
7. Additional Considerations for Foreign Nurses
Continuing Education & Career Growth
Spain offers numerous opportunities for career advancement in nursing through specialization programs and master’s degrees in nursing fields such as:
- Intensive Care Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Oncology Nursing
- Geriatric Nursing
Work Conditions & Benefits
- Standard working hours: 37.5 – 40 hours per week.
- Night shifts, weekend shifts, and overtime can increase earnings.
- Public healthcare workers receive paid vacations (up to 30 days per year) and other benefits such as sick leave and maternity/paternity leave.
Demand for Foreign Nurses
Spain has a growing demand for nurses, particularly in elderly care, rehabilitation, and emergency care. The country has an aging population, leading to increased job opportunities for skilled nurses.
Becoming a registered nurse in Spain requires a combination of academic validation, professional registration, and language proficiency. EU nurses have a smoother process due to automatic recognition of qualifications, while non-EU nurses must undergo degree homologation and potentially take additional exams or adaptation training. Understanding the immigration and licensing process is crucial for a successful transition.
For those willing to meet these requirements, Spain offers a rewarding career with competitive salaries, good working conditions, and opportunities for professional growth. With adequate preparation and determination, foreign nurses can successfully integrate into Spain’s healthcare system and build a fulfilling career.
More Read–> Spain Ranked as the Best Destination for Digital Nomads in 2025
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Become a Registered Nurse in Spain
What are the basic qualifications needed to become a nurse in Spain?
To become a nurse in Spain, you must have a recognized nursing degree equivalent to a Grado en Enfermería (Bachelor’s in Nursing). If you studied outside Spain, you must validate your degree through the Spanish Ministry of Education and undergo a credential recognition process.
Do I need to take a licensing exam to work as a nurse in Spain?
Unlike some countries, Spain does not require a specific national nursing exam. However, foreign-trained nurses may need to pass a competency test or complete an adaptation program (curso de adaptación) if their qualifications do not fully match Spanish standards.
Is Spanish language proficiency required to work as a nurse in Spain?
Yes, fluency in Spanish (Castellano) is essential since patient care requires direct communication. While there is no official language test for nursing registration, many employers require at least a B2 or C1 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
How can I get my foreign nursing degree recognized in Spain?
Foreign-trained nurses must apply for homologación (degree recognition) through the Spanish Ministry of Education. This process involves submitting academic transcripts, course descriptions, and sometimes completing additional training or exams. The process can take several months to over a year.
Do non-EU nurses need a work visa to practice in Spain?
Yes, non-EU nurses must obtain a work visa and a residence permit. The employer in Spain typically sponsors the work visa application. EU citizens do not need a visa but must register with the Spanish authorities to get a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero).
Are there nursing specialization options in Spain?
Yes, registered nurses in Spain can specialize in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, critical care, mental health, and surgical nursing. Specialization usually requires additional postgraduate training and experience.
What are the working conditions like for nurses in Spain?
Spanish nurses work 35-40 hours per week in hospitals, clinics, or care homes. Shifts can be morning, evening, or night. Public sector nurses enjoy more job stability, whereas private hospitals may have slightly better pay but fewer benefits.
Is there a high demand for nurses in Spain?
Yes, Spain has a growing demand for nurses, especially in elderly care, rural areas, and specialized units like intensive care. The COVID-19 pandemic increased the need for healthcare professionals, leading to more job opportunities for both local and foreign nurses.
Can Indian nurses work in Spain?
Yes, Indian nurses can work in Spain, but they must first have their nursing degree recognized (homologación) by the Spanish Ministry of Education. They must also meet language requirements, obtain a work visa, and register with the Spanish nursing council before practicing as a registered nurse.
Do Indian nurses need to take an exam to work in Spain?
There is no national nursing exam in Spain, but if your nursing degree does not fully match Spanish standards, you may need to complete a competency test or an adaptation course (curso de adaptación) at a Spanish university before getting licensed.
Do Indian nurses need a work visa for Spain?
Yes, Indian nurses need a work visa and residence permit to work in Spain. Usually, a Spanish hospital or healthcare employer sponsors the visa application. Nurses should also apply for a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), which is required for legal work and residency.
What is the average salary for Indian nurses in Spain?
Salaries for nurses in Spain depend on experience and the workplace. Indian nurses can expect:
Entry-level nurses: €20,000 – €25,000 per year
Experienced nurses: €25,000 – €35,000 per year
Specialized nurses: €30,000 – €40,000 per year
Public hospitals usually offer more job security, while private hospitals may offer slightly higher salaries.
Are Indian nurses in demand in Spain?
Yes, Spain has a shortage of nurses, especially in elderly care homes, rural hospitals, and specialized healthcare sectors. Indian nurses with experience in ICU, geriatrics, or specialized nursing have a higher chance of finding jobs in Spain.
Can Indian nurses bring their families to Spain?
Yes, after securing a job and work permit, Indian nurses can apply for family reunification visas for their spouse and children. However, family members may need to show financial dependency and meet visa requirements.
