Kingdom of Spain · work sponsored
Highly Qualified Professional (HQP) permit
Residence permit for highly qualified workers with a Spanish employment contract, processed under the Law 14/2013 regime.
Last reviewed:
Overview
The Highly Qualified Professional permit is Spain's fast-track work-authorisation route under the Entrepreneurs' Law (Ley 14/2013). Applications go to the UGE-CE unit with 20-working-day target processing. The route is routinely used by multinationals and tech employers for senior hires.
Government fees
Employer and employee fees apply; TIE fee additional.
Typical duration
3 years; renewable for 2 years; leads to permanent residence after 5.
Primary source
Ministerio — Highly Qualified Professional · Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migrations
Link last verified:
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Job offer from a Spanish employer for a highly qualified role.
Salary matching the route's minimums (tiered by company size).
University degree or 5+ years of equivalent professional experience.
Common blockers
Salary below the specific threshold for the employer size.
Typical evidence
Employment contract.
Degree or experience evidence.
Employer's corporate evidence to UGE-CE.
Application pathway
Step 1
Employer prepares the UGE-CE dossier
Most employers use specialist firms or in-house mobility teams.
Step 2
UGE-CE decision
Target 20 working days.
Step 3
Obtain visa or travel, then TIE
Visa at consulate if abroad, then TIE appointment in Spain.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the HQP permit the same as the EU Blue Card?
Spain separately implements the EU Blue Card. The HQP permit is a national Law 14/2013 route with faster UGE-CE processing. Employers choose the fit based on salary threshold, intra-EU mobility needs, and family-provision differences.
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We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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