How to Join the Spain Military
The realistic, step-by-step process for enlistment in the Spain armed forces — from first application to your first day of basic training.
- ▸6 main stages
- ▸~16 weeks application to training
- ▸Minimum age: 18 years
- ▸Starting pay: EUR 1,217/month
The application process at a glance
Joining the Spain military takes approximately 16 weeks from initial application to starting basic training. The process has 6 main stages. Be patient — bureaucratic delays at any stage are normal.
Step-by-step recruitment stages
- Step 1: Online application via reclutamiento.defensa.gob.es
- Step 2: Document review
- Step 3: Medical examination
- Step 4: Psychological-aptitude testing
- Step 5: Physical fitness test
- Step 6: Incorporation to CEFOT
Age, citizenship, and basic qualifications
You must be at least 18 years old to enlist (and no older than 29). Citizens of 19 specified countries (most of Latin America plus Equatorial Guinea) with legal Spanish residency may serve as Tropa y Marinería. Officer ranks generally require Spanish nationality. Medical and physical fitness standards apply at the screening stage.
What happens after you sign
After contract signing, you are scheduled for basic training (approximately 10 weeks). Initial pay starts at roughly EUR 1,217/month as a Soldado / Marinero (post-training, regular contract). Your specific MOS / trade / specialty determines follow-on training duration and assignments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to join the Spain military?
Typically 16 weeks from application to starting basic training, though delays are common.
Do I need Spain citizenship to join?
Not necessarily. Citizens of 19 specified countries (most of Latin America plus Equatorial Guinea) with legal Spanish residency may serve as Tropa y Marinería. Officer ranks generally require Spanish nationality.
What test do I have to pass to enlist?
Each country uses different aptitude testing — the recruiter's office or career center will administer it. See specific guidance per branch.
- reclutamiento.defensa.gob.es
- defensa.gob.es Tropa y Marinería; reclutamiento.defensa.gob.es
- defensa.gob.es retribuciones
- Real Decreto 1244/2002; defensa.gob.es