WORKING AND LIVING IN SPAIN-HELP!

[dblaine]

Hey
I'm wondering if anybody has any advice for me about working and living in Spain (or any Schengen country for that matter). I plan on travelling outside the Schengen countries, but would like to stay in Barcelona for more than 3 months. I don't have a visa and I am not sure if they will even let me in since my stay is longer than 3 months. Can anybody tell me what I am likely to face when I fly into Madrid? Will they be OK with me telling them that I am travelling all over and not just staying in Spain? Will they demand to see an outgoing flight itinerary? I know that I am not the first person with this plan, so I am wondering how others have worked around the Visa situation. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

[MuvverRussia]

Regarding working, there are jobs available 'under the table', but I would never advocate this approach. Being deported from a Schengen country isn't a great experience.

Also, these jobs pay poor rates of pay, then there's the language barrier to consider - unless you're proficient in Catalan and possibly Castellaño you may struggle. Finally, there's a lot of competition - why should a company hire an illegal worker when they can get an Eastern European (legal) worker for the same price?

If you've got concrete proof that you're leaving the country within 3 months then you should be ok. That said, if you don't you're likely to find that your reception is less than welcoming.

Think through your options. Working in a foreign country isn't as easy as just jumping ship (within reason of course - for EEA citizens it's a lot more straightforward). You really need to know exactly what you need to do.

[commie]

in this case i would try to work&live outside of the city, some small town and work on a farm or so.