What families should know to hire a foreign housekeeper in Spain: work authorisation, registration and contract.

Hiring an International Housekeeper in Spain

Hiring a foreign housekeeper in Spain: work authorisation, registration and good practice.

Quick answer: an EU/EEA citizen can work freely in Spain; a non-EU national needs a residence and work permit. Either way, the job is registered with Social Security and follows the same rules (SMI, contract, contributions). Check the right to work before hiring.

Many families, expat and Spanish alike, employ someone from abroad. Here's what to know.

Right to work

  • EU / EEA / Switzerland: no specific permit needed.
  • Non-EU: a residence and work permit is required; check its validity.
  • Keep a copy of the documents you verified.

The same obligations

Whatever the nationality, declared employment follows the general rules: SMI, written contract, Social Security registration and contributions. The 20% reduction on the employer contribution applies in the same way.

Practical tips

  • Clarify the working language and instructions.
  • Check references, as for any hire.
  • Put everything in the contract.

Official sources

Conclusion

Check the right to work and apply the usual rules: employing a registered worker from abroad is simple and secure.

See also

FAQ

Must I check the right to work?

Yes: for non-EU nationals, make sure they hold a residence-and-work permit. It's the employer's responsibility.

Does registration change?

No: the Social Security registration and contract are the same as for any domestic worker.