(Jewish Daily Bulletin Staff Correspondent)
Madrid.
Difficulties in finding employment in Spain, the greatly differing mode of life of the country as compared to Germany and the complications ensuing from the unfamiliar language have checked, to a certain extent, the flow of Jewish immigration into Spain. But recent developments, such as the movement from the Saar and the increasing difficulties of finding employment in France, are again bringing immigrants here hopefully searching for the possibility of establishing and rehabilitating themselves.
The constitution of the Spanish republic guarantees liberty of conscience and the right to practice any religion. No one is called upon to state his religion officially and there are no laws prohibiting the entrance of persons into the country because they practice certain religions. There are, of course, requirements on the basis of nationality and reciprocal measures affecting citizens of some countries more than others.
Most of the Jews seeking to settle in Spain are, as to be expected, of German citizenship. They are obliged to obtain visas, a long and complicated process which includes the obtaining of a guarantee from a Spanish citizen.
Once admitted into the country, the immigrant, before being able to earn money must obtain a labor permit from the Ministry of Labor. These permits are issued for twelve-month periods and must be renewed on expiration. Should renewal of the permit be denied by the authorities for any of a number of valid reasons, the police may refuse to renew the necessary residential permit. These conditions can become most troublesome to foreigners, especially those engaged in fields of work in which Spanish citizens are also engaged.
The merchant who comes to Spain with capital finds life much easier and conditions far less involved. Many who came here as refugees have surmounted the initial obstacles and now are in possession of flourishing businesses.
The chief obstacle which they had to meet, and which newcomers seeking to engage in business have to overcome, is the question of payment of the guild fees. Most lines are recognized into guilds which fix membership taxes. The new entrant in the field may appeal from the guild’s decision if the tax levy is too high, but the procedure takes time and effort.
The greatest difficulties are those which face the practitioner of a free profession. It is impossible for them to engage in their professions before they have acquired Spanish nationality and have successfully undergone examinations in their profession. For the professional man, Spain is closed so far as a livelihood is concerned, unless he is fortunate enough to have another vocation over which the regulations are not so stringent.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
