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How to Obtain Your Spanish Work History (Vida Laboral)

Spanish Work History (Vida Laboral) Application Guide

Section titled “Spanish Work History (Vida Laboral) Application Guide”

Vida Laboral is an official document issued by the Spanish Social Security (Seguridad Social) that provides a detailed record of your employment history and social security contributions in Spain. It is a vital document for several key procedures:

Loans & Mortgages

Banks use it to assess your financial stability and income history.

Property & Housing

Required to prove stable employment when renting or buying a home.

Car Purchases

Necessary for financing and car loan applications.

Job Applications

Allows you to verify your professional background to prospective employers.

Residency & Visas

Essential for renewing residency cards or changing your legal status.

Social Welfare

Required when applying for unemployment benefits or other state aid.

Method 1: Online Application (Best Choice)

Section titled “Method 1: Online Application (Best Choice)”

This is the fastest and most convenient way to receive your certificate.

  1. Visit the Official Portal:

  2. Identity Verification: Choose the method that works best for you:

    • Cl@ve PIN: If you are already registered in the Cl@ve system.
    • Digital Certificate: If you have a valid electronic certificate installed on your browser.
    • SMS Verification (easiest): The system sends a code to the mobile number registered with Social Security.
  3. Request the Report:

    • Select “Informe de tu vida laboral”.
    • Verify your personal details.
    • Click “Obtener informe” (Get report).
  4. Download Your Document:

    • The system will immediately generate a PDF. You can download, print, or save it for future use.
  1. Book an Appointment (Cita Previa):

  2. What to Bring:

    • Valid ID (NIE or Passport).
    • Your Social Security Number (NAF).
  3. Applying in Person:

    • Inform the staff you need a Vida Laboral certificate.
    • They will guide you through the form and provide the document on the spot.

I don’t have a Social Security Number (NAF). What should I do?

Section titled “I don’t have a Social Security Number (NAF). What should I do?”

If you haven’t worked in Spain before, you must first apply for a Social Security Number. Usually, your first employer handles this during the hiring process.

While there is no legal expiration date, most institutions (banks, immigration) require a certificate issued within the last 3 months.

What if my work history information is wrong?

Section titled “What if my work history information is wrong?”

If you spot an error, visit a Social Security office with supporting documents (contracts, payslips) to request a correction.

  • Keep it Digital: Regularly save a copy of your Vida Laboral to your cloud storage or email.
  • Plan Ahead: If you know you have an appointment coming up (e.g., for a visa), download a fresh copy a few days before.

Need more help? Contact us for technical assistance or guidance.

Information last updated: March 2025. Always check the official Social Security website for the latest updates.