Finding Work in Barcelona as an Expat: My Personal Journey

When I moved to Barcelona, I quickly discovered that finding a job as an expat comes with its own unique set of challenges and surprises. Let me share my experience with you!

If you’re more of a visual learner, check out my YouTube video where I shared my personal experience job hunting in Spain, what it’s really like working in a Spanish company, and the unexpected reason why I had to go back to the office after 8 years of working remotely.

Why I Decided to Look for a Local Job

In May 2023, I made the decision to apply for a job locally in Barcelona. My main motivation? To boost our chances of landing a better apartment. Landlords here tend to trust tenants more when they see two employment contracts and pay slips (nóminas). I know, it’s a bit backwards but that’s just how it goes around here.

The Job Hunt Reality Check

Finding work in Barcelona as an expat isn’t always straightforward. Despite my solid work experience and skills, I faced one major hurdle: most companies require candidates to be fluent in both Spanish and English—something I was lacking.

Luckily, I stumbled upon a company on LinkedIn where Spanish fluency wasn’t required. This was mainly because the owner was Irish, and most of the leadership team was based in either the US or the UK.

The Salary Situation

Here’s the truth: I took a 30% pay cut from my previous remote job to accept this hybrid position. Why? Simply to improve our apartment hunting prospects. That was literally the only reason.

Spain is known for having some of the lowest salaries in Europe, so if you’re thinking about moving and working here, don’t expect a fat paycheck. That said, if quality of life is what you’re after, Barcelona won’t disappoint you!

Understanding Spanish Payslips

In my payslip, I noticed four main deductions:

Social Security contributions (6.45% total):

• 4.8% for common contingencies (like healthcare)
• 0.10% for training or education
• 1.55% for unemployment benefits

Plus 18.09% for income tax (I.R.P.F.)

Back to Office Life After 8 Years Remote

Returning to an office after working remotely for 8 years? Talk about culture shock!

Most of my colleagues were Spanish or Latin American and in their twenties—I was a decade or more older than most of them! This age gap created an interesting dynamic. While they seemed to treat work as a social opportunity, I was there primarily to, well, work! I even told my boss this, and he just laughed because he felt the same way.

Another adjustment? Having to dress up again. After 8 years of wearing whatever I wanted at home, suddenly needing office-appropriate attire was overwhelming. I literally went shopping during my first week because I felt underdressed. The pressure to look professional was real (and annoying), but necessary.

How Long Did It Last?

I stayed with the company for just 10 months before it declared bankruptcy. But thanks to my experience and skills, finding a new job wasn’t difficult. Now I’m back to working remotely for a UK-based company—and earning much more than the average Spanish salary while enjoying Barcelona’s lower cost of living.

I also maintain a second remote job that I’ve had for 5 years now. It serves as a safety net and helps eliminate financial stress when I need to look for new opportunities.

Would I Work Locally Again?

Honestly? No. I’ve grown too accustomed to the remote work lifestyle. I love the freedom it provides, and as an introvert, not having to socialize daily is a huge plus for me.

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Have you worked as an expat in Barcelona or elsewhere in Spain? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!