If you are considering working in Spain with a B2, the real answer is: it depends on the role, the sector, and the amount of “human interaction” you have on a daily basis.
The CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) organises language proficiency from A1 to C2 and groups the levels into three blocks: basic user (A1–A2), independent user (B1–B2) and proficient user (C1–C2).
What “having a B2” actually means in the workplace
In CEFR terms, a B2 generally means you can:
- Understand the main ideas of complex texts, including technical ones within your field.
- Participate in conversations with fluency and spontaneity (normal interaction without strain).
- Write clear and detailed texts, arguing your points by showing pros and cons.
This fits well with jobs where Spanish is important, but not your primary tool for precision.
Keep learning: Differences between Spanish levels
When B2 is usually enough and when it falls short
B2 is typically sufficient if your job…
- Is internal (team, processes, technical tasks) and communication is predictable.
- Uses Spanish for operational meetings, standard emails, scripted support, and basic reports.
- Relies on documentation and allows you to ask for clarifications without getting stuck.
According to the CEFR, at B2 level, a person can argue effectively, maintain and defend opinions, and participate in negotiations with greater ease, consolidating the move towards a more conscious and autonomous use of the language.
You should start aiming for C1 if your job…
- Involves persuasion, frequent negotiation, or conflict management.
- Requires complex writing (reports, proposals, long texts, nuanced precision).
- Is client-facing in sensitive environments such as healthcare, legal, education, or HR.
At C1, the CEFR emphasises a broad repertoire and flexible use for social, academic, and professional purposes, producing well-structured texts with control over connectors and cohesion.
You may be interested in: Steps to obtain a student visa for Spain
Quick table: B2 vs C1 in typical work tasks
Task | B2 (typical) | C1 (typical) |
Meetings | Participate fluently and follow the discussion | Lead, nuance, manage course changes |
Emails | Clear and detailed | Precise, tone-adjusted, complex arguments |
Reports | Explain and compare options | Structure complex topics in depth |
Negotiation | Defend your point and understand the essentials | Negotiate with nuance, reduce ambiguity |
Sensitive environments | May struggle under pressure or with implied meanings | Greater control of implied meanings and register |
Source: Summary based on global B2/C1 descriptors from the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
Professions and recommended level: practical guide
Bear in mind that official requirements vary by employer, region or autonomous community, recognition, and professional licensing. This table provides an approximate guide for orientation purposes.
Professional profile | Level that usually works | Why |
Hospitality / retail / customer service | B1–B2 | High interaction, but language is repetitive and situational |
Administration / back office | B2 | Emails, calls, standard documentation |
IT / engineering in international companies | B2 | Meetings and documentation; technical work dominates |
Marketing / sales (Spanish market) | C1 | Persuasion, nuance, negotiation, storytelling |
Healthcare (doctor, nurse) | C1 (min.) | Sensitive communication, risk of misunderstandings |
Legal field | C1–C2 | Terminological and interpretive precision |
Teaching (non-native) | C1–C2 | Register, explanation, classroom management |
Certificates: how to prove your level (the most requested)
If a proof of level is required, the most common is an official certificate.
The most widely recognised are:
- DELE: official diploma from the Cervantes Institute (on behalf of the Ministry) with indefinite validity.
- SIELE: skill-based certification useful if you need a faster assessment or results by individual skills. To decide which suits you best, compare here: “SIELE or DELE: main differences.”
Keep learning: Check other certifications via that article.
Mini personal test: is your B2 practical or just academic?
Ask yourself and be honest:
- Can you sustain a 30–45 minute meeting without switching to English?
- Can you write a professional email without sounding brusque or childish?
- Do you understand jokes, implied meanings, and subtle disagreements (“we’ll see”)?
- Can you explain a problem and propose solutions with pros/cons?
If you hesitate on two or more, your practical goal should usually be B2+ or C1.
FAQs: real questions by profession
I’m a nurse or doctor: is B2 enough?
For safe practice, C1 is generally recommended: the context is sensitive and the risk of misunderstandings is high. CEFR describes C1 as flexible and effective use for professional purposes, including understanding demanding texts with implied meanings.
I’m an engineer or developer: is B2 enough?
Often yes, especially if the role is technical and the team is international. B2 covers technical discussions within your specialisation.
I work in sales or customer service: what do I need?
If you sell, negotiate, or handle objections, C1 usually makes the difference. At B2, you can argue and compare options, but C1 gives you more nuance and control over discourse.
I’m a teacher (or want to teach): is B2 enough?
For teaching, typically C1 or C2 is required for precision, register, and explanation.
I’m a lawyer or working in the legal field: what level?
In the legal field, for precision and nuance, C1–C2 is usually expected. (Also, check employer/professional body requirements.)
Which certificate is best for work?
If you need a “classic” diploma and are not in a rush, DELE is the way to go. If you prefer to certify your level more quickly or by skills, SIELE is more suitable.
A B2 can open doors in Spain, but it is not a “universal pass.” The more your role relies on persuading, negotiating, writing, and handling delicate situations, the more sense it makes to aim for C1.
Is your ideal job in Spain more “technical tasks” or more “people and decisions”? That answer usually indicates your target level.
At Españolé Spanish School, we offer the “Work and Study in Spain” programme if you want to learn the language while also doing internships in your field. If you are planning to work for a Spanish company but have limited Spanish, it’s best to check our intensive courses or preparation courses of DELE or SIELE.
Contact us, and we will guide you through everything you need to take your first steps in Spain: training, accommodation, internships, or leisure activities to practise your Spanish.
