How to Write a CV for Spain in 2026

Spanish workplace culture

Spain has a relationship-oriented business culture. Building rapport matters. Spanish employers value personal connection, genuine interest in the company, and a warm — though still professional — tone in application materials. This extends from the major cities (Madrid, Barcelona) to regional markets with their own distinct cultures (Catalonia, Basque Country, Andalusia).

Photo and personal details

A professional photo is standard in Spain and widely expected. Personal details including date of birth, address, phone, email, and nationality are typically included. DNI (Spanish ID number) is sometimes requested for Spanish nationals. For international applicants, include your nationality and visa status if relevant.

Structure and format

• Length: One to two pages. Spanish employers appreciate brevity but do not penalise a well-structured second page.
• Layout: Clean and professional. The Europass format is accepted but a customised format often makes a stronger impression.
• Work experience: Reverse chronological with dates, company names, roles, and bullet-pointed achievements.
• Education: List qualifications with institution, location, and dates. Spanish employers value formal education.
• Languages: Spanish proficiency is essential for most roles. English is increasingly valued, particularly in Barcelona and tech sectors.

The carta de presentación

A cover letter is generally expected. Write it in Spanish for Spanish companies. Demonstrate genuine knowledge of and interest in the company. Spanish employers appreciate authentic motivation — show that you have researched them specifically. A warm, personal tone is appropriate without being informal.

Barcelona vs Madrid

Barcelona has a stronger startup and tech ecosystem, with many international companies. Catalan is widely spoken — learning even a few words shows cultural respect. Madrid is Spain's financial and corporate capital, home to many multinational headquarters. The tech scene is growing. Both cities have large expat communities and English-speaking job markets in certain sectors.

Common mistakes

• Omitting a photo (expected in most Spanish contexts)
• Sending an English-only CV to a Spanish company
• Using a generic carta de presentación
• Ignoring regional language considerations (Catalan in Barcelona, Basque in the north)
• Underestimating the importance of relationships in the Spanish hiring process