Catalonia is one of the most important autonomous communities in Spain. It is also one of the country's most prosperous and industrialized regions and has a population of 8,016,606 (Catalonia Institute of Statistics). Approximately 1,362,000 of the region's residents come from foreign countries. This makes it the second-largest community in Spain in terms of population number. As one of the powerhouses of the Spanish economy, Catalonia has a lot to offer the job seeker.
Before starting your job search in Catalonia, devote some research time to understanding the labor market and economy. See where your skills might be most helpful and look for opportunities in those sectors.
Note that because the UK is no longer a European Union member, British citizens have no automatic right to work in Spain (unless legally resident in the country before 2021 and who remain legally resident). However, landing a role is not impossible. UK citizens may find a job on Spain's regularly updated shortage occupation list. If a company wants to employ you, they need to demonstrate the role couldn't be filled by a Spanish or EU citizen.
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As with many other places in the world, qualifications, language skills and a good track record are valuable assets. If you are not yet fluent in Spanish, don't worry. A good understanding will stand you in good stead. Of course, once you're working with Spanish colleagues, your fluency will improve in no time.
Economy of Catalonia
Catalonia boasts a thriving economy, partly thanks to its many key industries. According to data from the Catalonia Institute of Statistics, the region accounted for 18.8% of Spain's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2023. This was the same proportion as 2022 and a fraction less than the 19% it contributed in 2021.
Tourism is one of the most important sectors, as the region is home to many popular tourist destinations. From the stunning beaches of the Costa Brava to the picturesque city of Barcelona, Catalonia attracts millions of visitors yearly, generating significant revenue and creating jobs in the tourism industry.
In addition to tourism, Catalonia has a longstanding industrial tradition. The principal industrial areas are food, motor vehicles, chemical, pharma and energy. Publishing and construction are also important.
The region is also known for its strong agricultural sector, producing crops such as olives, grapes and other fruits. And there is a thriving technology industry, with many innovative startups and established tech companies. These businesses are at the forefront of the digital economy, developing cutting-edge technologies and creating new jobs in the sector.
Catalonia´s labor market
In 2024, Catalonia had one of its best years in terms of job creation since the 2008 financial crisis. The autonomous community recorded an increase of 55,200 people in work, bringing the total number to 3,855,900. There was also an increase in permanent contracts and a small drop in temporary contracts. In percentage terms, the employment rate stood at 71.3% (75.8% men and 66.7% women). At the same time, there were 329,300 unemployed people, representing a 3% decrease from the previous year.
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Catalonia's labor market has been transforming in recent years with increased demand for technological jobs, especially health, science and IT professionals.
The average gross annual salary in Catalonia is 30,515.33 euros, according to figures made available in January 2025. The highest earners were those in the 45 to 65 age group, with an annual average salary of 34,272.17 euros.
How to find a job in Catalonia
As a hub for international business and tourism, there are plenty of employment options for foreigners in Catalonia. Whether you're looking for full-time positions or part-time gigs, several industries are open to hiring expats. Below is a list of some of the best places for expats to find work in Catalonia:
- Job search engines and portals, such as Indeed, InfoJobs, and LinkedIn;
- Recruitment agencies that can help place expats, such as Hays and Manpower;
- Online expat communities and job boards;
- International companies with offices in Catalonia, especially those with a strong expat community, such as Amazon, PwC, and Deloitte;
- Trade associations and professional organizations in your industry;
- English-language media outlets, such as The Local and Barcelona Metropolitan, often have job listings and career advice for expats;
- Co-working spaces and startup incubators, such as Betahaus and Conector, where you can network with other entrepreneurs and business owners;
- Networking events and job fairs
- Volunteering and internship opportunities can help you gain experience and make connections in your desired industry.
The work culture in Catalonia
Professionalism, hard work and a strong sense of community are the principal characteristics of the work culture in Catalonia. Work-life balance is highly valued, with the standard work week being 35-40 hours.
Catalan people are typically self-driven and take pride in their work. They possess a strong work ethic and prioritize achieving success collectively. The business climate in Catalonia is highly competitive but supportive. The spirit of entrepreneurship is highly valued.
How to prepare for a job interview
With its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and rich history, Catalonia is an attractive destination for many. However, finding a job can be challenging, especially as a foreigner. So here are a few tips to help you land a job in Catalonia once you´ve been shortlisted for an interview.
- Research the company and its cultural values;
- Study the Catalan language and customs;
- Dress appropriately for the interview;
- Show enthusiasm and interest in Catalan culture and lifestyle;
- Have a clear understanding of the job requirements and responsibilities;
- Practice common interview questions and responses;
- Prepare examples of past work experiences that demonstrate relevant skills;
- Be confident and natural while communicating;
- Consider seeking guidance from a recruitment agency or cultural consultant.
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