On February 7, 2005, a new Procedure for the application of the Law "On Foreigners" came into force in Spain. \n \nIn connection with its implementation, the number of institutions engaged in processing work permits for foreigners in this country has significantly increased. It is expected that within the next three months, more than a million applications for work permits by foreigners may be accepted for consideration. \n \nAccording to the new Procedure, the processing of a foreigner's work permit must be handled by the potential employer. Among the documents that must be attached to the application, the following are specified: an employment contract, a certificate of no criminal record (duly legalized), and a certificate of the foreigner's registration in Spain over the past six months. One of the conditions for a foreigner to obtain a work permit is mandatory insurance and entry of personal data into the general social insurance system with payment of the necessary taxes and contributions. \n\nAs commented by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, it is expected that in connection with the entry into force of the above-mentioned Procedure, the processing time for applications for work permits by foreigners will be significantly accelerated, and their social guarantees will also increase, reports "LIGABiznesInform". Overall, it can be considered that the above-stated changes in Spanish legislation are aimed at simplifying the procedure for employment of foreigners, including Ukrainian citizens, the press service added.