In recent years, Spain has seen a noticeable shift in its labor market: more and more migrants from Latin America are finding ways to increase their earnings by using flexible employment schemes. This not only impacts the country’s economy but also challenges traditional views on what opportunities newcomers can pursue. The stories of such individuals set an example for others seeking legalization and stable income amid intense competition.
Elida, who arrived from Peru, has been living in Spain for over four years and works in the domestic service sector. She doesn’t settle for just one job: cleaning apartments, helping in kitchens, various side gigs—all this allows her to earn between 1,500 and 2,000 euros a month. Such an income is considered high for a migrant, but it comes only thanks to her constantly changing schedule and ability to adapt quickly to new circumstances. Elida admits that the key to success is flexibility and the willingness to adjust to clients’ needs.
Financial strategy
Despite the impressive amounts she manages to earn, expenses remain significant. Renting a room alone costs 350 euros, and with transportation, communications, utilities, and groceries, monthly expenses reach 800–900 euros. In such conditions, careful budgeting becomes essential. Elida meticulously allocates her income to avoid ending up in a difficult situation by the end of the month. She does not work full days at any single job but combines several part-time positions, allowing her to use her time as efficiently as possible.
This strategy is typical for many migrants who cannot count on stable employment or official contracts. Flexibility becomes their main tool for survival and increasing their income. However, this model requires constant monitoring of expenses and the ability to quickly adapt to changes in schedules or working conditions.
Legal nuances
For citizens of countries outside the European Union, staying in Spain is limited to 90 days within a 180-day period. Violating this rule can lead to serious consequences: administrative fines, entry bans for several years, and even deportation. That is why it is critical for many migrants to obtain a temporary residence permit on time, which allows them to legally stay in the country for up to five years.
Transitioning from tourist status to an official residence permit is a complex and lengthy process. It not only requires gathering documents, but also proof of financial independence. For those like Elida, who have already obtained Spanish citizenship, the situation is much simpler. However, most migrants are forced to look for legal ways to remain in the country to avoid the risk of fines and lost income.
Migration trends
Latin Americans make up nearly half of all migrants in Spain, and among those arriving from outside Europe, their share reaches two-thirds. Almost half of them have already obtained citizenship, indicating a high degree of integration into Spanish society. These data confirm that Spain’s labor market is becoming increasingly multinational, with migrants playing a key role in the development of the service sector and domestic work.
In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of migrants opting for more flexible forms of employment. This is due not only to market characteristics but also to the need to quickly adapt to new economic conditions. For many, this is the only way to ensure a decent standard of living and avoid the risks associated with illegal residency.
In recent months, debates have intensified in Spain about the need to reform migration laws and simplify legalization procedures for those who are already working and paying taxes. In 2025, large-scale rallies took place in Madrid and Barcelona in support of migrants’ rights, with calls to recognize their contribution to the country’s economy. At the same time, more migrants have managed to achieve financial independence, often by working multiple jobs—or even starting their own businesses. These trends highlight the importance of flexibility and openness to change for successful integration into Spanish society.
