American wants to overstay Schengen Visa if I don't find work - advice, risks, problems?

[bmwisener]

Hi Everyone!

I am an American that has recently arrived to Spain, and has about 75 days left on my Schengen VISA left.  I want to live in Spain for at least a year and have my CELTA/TEFL Teaching Credential?

I am concerned that I won't be able to find a job that will sponsor my work as most of the language schools don't seem to want to go through the hassle of hiring an American. I'm not sure what my options are really, I am quite concerned, but my gut is kind of saying just to stay in Spain if I don't find legal work and just work doing private lessons and at more shady language institutes.

I'm curious if there are other Americans that have dealt with this situation, and how they handled it?

Thank you!

[steven]

Hi, if you stay in Spain illegaly (overstay), you might pay a fine or even be banned from entry to the Schengen area for 10 years (in the worst case). If you get caught. You can get caught overstaying either when you go back to the US (at the airport exit control), or you can also get caught on the street (for example when you get involved in an accident where the police asks you for your identification, etc.). Teaching English, your chances of getting work visa are slim, but you might try getting students visa by enrolling your self into some Spanish school. Or, get yourself a Spanish wife.