Spain has established itself as a key destination for researchers, teachers, and professionals in innovation, research, and development for commercial, productive, or technological purposes. If you want to see your fruitful scientific or academic activity flourish, there is a specific pathway: the residence authorization for training, research, development, and innovation.

In Nomadis we explain how it works, who can apply for it, and why it is one of the most interesting options within the Spanish migration system.

Who can access this residence?

This authorization is intended for highly qualified profiles linked to academic or R&D+i activities in Spain. Specifically:

• Researchers in the scientific or technological field
• Technical staff in innovation projects
• Professionals admitted under research agreements
• Teachers hired by universities or business schools

A key point: it is not necessary to come from scratch in order to obtain it, as people who are already in Spain with another authorization of stay or residence can also apply for it. In fact, it seems to be inferred from the article regulating the figure in question that it is mandatory request this authorization if your intention is to carry out these activities. 

A fundamental aspect: it authorizes working

Unlike other migrant workers, this authorization does not limit professional activity.

It allows you to work legally in Spain from the very first moment, both in research and, in certain cases, in related teaching activities.

This makes it an especially attractive option compared to more restrictive routes, such as the teleworker residence, whose main impediment lies in the prohibition of working for Spanish companies, or the one for highly qualified professionals, which requires the payment of a gross annual salary of 42,000€ to access it (or 54,000€ if it is for management positions or business management).

Who requests the authorization?

Here is another important differentiating element:

The application is not submitted by the foreigner, but by the host entity in Spain.

That is, the university, research center, or company is the one who initiates the procedure with the Large Enterprises Unit (UGE).

This would seem to simplify the process for the professional and ensure that the project has institutional backing; but here, indeed, lies the main obstacle.The host entities do not really know either the person in question or the duties inherent in the obligation to apply to her, or the requirements for the application to be approved. That is why it is essential to obtain the intermediation of management firms such as Nomadis, which can help researchers properly inform the host entities about the requirements, the documentation to be submitted and the obligations to be met, mainly in tax and social security matters, to ensure resounding success in the approval of the residence application and the normal development of life in community for this type of professional. 

Types of authorization: national vs. European

There are two main modalities:

• National research residence: for profiles that do not meet the requirements for European mobility
• EU research residency: for profiles with a higher degree (usually a doctorate or access to a doctorate) and greater international projection

The EU authorization has a key advantage: it allows for mobility within the European Union to develop part of the project in other member states.

Key requirements: the link with the entity

To obtain this authorization, it is essential to prove your connection to the host entity. This can be done through:

• Employment contract
• Host agreement
• Invitation letter accepted

This document must detail the project, its duration, and the commitment of both parties.

Duration and renewal

The authorization is granted by:

• Up to 3 years, or
• Because of the duration of the project, if it is shorter

It can be renewed later and, after 5 years of meeting the parameters for which the authorization was originally granted, it is possible to obtain long-term residence if the requirements are maintained.

In addition, there are specific assumptions such as:

• Doctoral students, who can opt for this route instead of a stay for studies
• Exceptional renewals if the research (e.g., a thesis) has not been completed

International mobility and additional benefits

If you obtain the EU research authorization:

• You can work in other EU countries within the same project
• You can travel with your family
• You can combine research and teaching

This makes it one of the most complete residences in the system.

What happens at the end of the investigation?

One of the great advantages is the continuity:

You can stay in Spain for up to 12 months to:

• Find employment related to your field
• Starting a project

During that period, you maintain your regular status and can switch to another authorization if you find an opportunity.

Why is it one of the best migratory routes?

Because it combines:

• Direct access to the labor market
• Agile procedure through the UGE
• International projection
• Possibility of long-term detention

In many cases, it is more favorable than other options such as stays for studies or more limited permits.

Can we help you process it?

En Nomadis We support both professionals and organizations throughout the entire process:

• Profile analysis and feasibility
• Preparation of documentation
• Coordination with the host entity
• Follow-up after the UGE

If you are considering coming to Spain as a researcher or integrating international talent into your organization, we can help you do so in a safe and strategic way.