To ensure a smooth transition to the UOC and your new life in Barcelona, we will guide you through the specific procedures for your profile based on your region of origin.
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Researchers with European Union (EU), EEA*, and Swiss citizenship
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Non-EU international researchers (outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland) |
Researchers with European Union (EU), EEA*, and Swiss citizenship
If you hold EU citizenship, the entry process is straightforward, though we recommend preparing a few logistical details in advance.
- Entry procedures: No visa or prior work authorization is required to travel to Spain.
- Mandatory documentation: You must travel with your original passport or a valid national identity document.
- Important: We recommend that your passport is valid for at least 6 months at the time of entry to ensure smooth processing for subsequent formalities.
Banking and finance management:
Although a bank account with a European IBAN is valid for receiving your salary, we recommend opening a Spanish bank account after your arrival.
Having a local account makes it easier to set up direct debits for utilities (electricity, internet), access national benefits, and use Bizum (the most widespread instant payment system in Spain).
You can explore options that allow quick opening tailored to international profiles, or open one once you obtain your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number).
*EEA: Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.
Non-EU international researchers (outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland)
If you come from a country outside the European Union, the process consists of two mandatory phases before traveling: at the UOC, we are by your side every step of the way.
1. Residence and work authorization (UGE)
The UOC International Mobility Office will manage your authorization.
Processing time: Approximately 20 business days from the submission of the application.
2. Visa application
Once the previous authorization is approved, you must apply for the visa at the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in your country of habitual residence.
Critical documentation requirements: All foreign documents must be legalized (via the Hague Apostille or diplomatic channels) and translated into Spanish by an official sworn translator.
>> Click here to use the official search tool for sworn translation and interpreting professionals <<
Documents to Prepare for your Consulate Appointment:
- Valid full passport with a minimum validity of 6 months.
- Medical certificate: A document accrediting that you do not suffer from diseases with serious public health implications (according to the International Health Regulations of 2005).
- Criminal record certificate: Original, from the country or countries where you have resided during the last two years. Additionally, a self-declaration of the absence of criminal records for the last five years must be submitted.
- Residence and work authorization.
For more information, please consult the consular services in your place of residence.
Family reunification
At the UOC, we understand that the success of your research stage also depends on your family's well-being. Therefore, your immediate family members (spouse or registered partner and dependent children) have the right to apply for residence to accompany you to Spain.
It is essential that you inform the university before starting any procedures if you intend to relocate with your family. This allows the UOC International Mobility Office to initiate your family members' residence authorization application jointly with yours.
Required documentation:
- Family ties: Marriage certificate and/or birth certificates of your children.
- Legalization and translation: All these documents must be properly legalized (via the Hague Apostille or diplomatic channels, depending on the country of origin) and accompanied by an official sworn translation into Spanish.
Renewal of the authorization
If you are a member of the teaching staff, research staff, or research support technical team (non-EU) and your work stay needs to be extended, your residence and work authorization must be renewed.
The procedure can be started 60 days before the expiry date of your current card. For your peace of mind, the UOC takes care of managing this renewal process directly with the immigration office.
- Family members: Renewals for dependent family members can also be carried out 60 days before expiry, and the UOC can also manage this process jointly.