# Can a 16-year-old make money legally in Spain?

A practical guide for Chinese and international-school teens in Spain: work rules, parent consent, safe projects, and summer money planning.

Short answer: In Spain, the general minimum working age is 16. Until 18, a teen usually needs parent or guardian authorization unless legally emancipated. Under-18 workers cannot do night work, overtime, or restricted dangerous jobs.

Language: en
Country: ES
Age range: 16-18
Last checked: 2026-05-02

## Questions
- Can a 16-year-old work in Spain?
- How can an international-school student in Spain make money safely?
- Do I need parent permission to work under 18 in Spain?

## Risk notes
- This is not legal advice and does not judge any individual contract.
- Work under 18 involves parent consent, time limits, safety risks, and job restrictions.
- Avoid hidden cash work, night shifts, dangerous jobs, and any offer that asks you to hide your age or identity.

## Checklist
- Confirm parent or guardian permission first - Official sources describe the 16-18 age boundary and parent/guardian authorization.
- Rule out night work, overtime, and dangerous jobs - Under-18 workers cannot do night work, overtime, or jobs restricted for safety reasons.
- Write down the work, hours, pay, and contact person - Let a parent review it before you start. Do not rely only on verbal promises.
- Protect school, exams, and sleep - If work may affect immigration, tax, or family arrangements, ask your school or a qualified professional before accepting it.

## FAQ
### Can a 16-year-old work in Spain?
Generally yes. SEPE says the minimum working age in Spain is 16; until 18, parent or guardian authorization is usually needed unless the teen is legally emancipated.

### Can I work at night if I am 16 or 17?
No. Spain's Workers' Statute prohibits night work and overtime for workers under 18.

### What if I do projects instead of a formal job?
Small projects can be safer than hidden cash work, but you still need clear boundaries: who the client is, what you will deliver, how much time it takes, and whether your parent agrees.

### How do I convince my parents?
Bring a plan: legal limits, no-go jobs, weekly hours, expected income, emergency contact, and what you are saving for.

## Official sources
- https://boe.es/buscar/act.php?id=BOE-A-2015-11430
- https://www.sepe.es/HomeSepe/que-es-el-sepe/comunicacion-institucional/publicaciones/publicaciones-oficiales/listado-pub-eures/trabajar-espana/trabajar-en-espana.html
- https://boe.es/buscar/act.php?id=BOE-A-1995-24292

## Disclaimer
This page summarizes public information and family safety planning. It is not legal, employment, tax, or immigration advice.

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