Professionals with a university degree or 3+ years’ experience, and a job offer for a specialized or managerial role, usually earning €40,000+/year.

No labor market test/quota is required, making the process faster for both the employer and worker.

Salary threshold can be reduced to 80% for recent graduates/high-demand roles, but not below 1x the Spanish average.

You may renew if conditions are met; overstaying or failing requirements can lead to fines or removal of residency.

Blue Card offers EU-wide mobility, stricter salary threshold; HQP is easier/faster for Spain only, lower salary bar.

You can change employers with notification; after 18 months, you may move to another EU country on a Blue Card, subject to local process.

Yes, immediate family can join; spouses can work without extra permits.

Up to 45 days for processing in most cases, may take up to 90 if extra documents are required.

Equal work/social rights as locals, access to social security, family reunification, spouse work rights, easier EU mobility.

Up to 3 years, renewable for 2 more; long-term residency after 5 years in the EU (can combine time in other EU countries).

Valid passport, job offer/contract, qualifications, employer and applicant forms, CV, proof of salary and insurance, clean criminal record, application fee.

Secure an eligible job offer, employer submits application to Spanish immigration, then apply for visa/residency if outside Spain.

In 2025, €40,077/year; reduced to €30,058 for applicants ≤30 years old or certain high-demand jobs; higher for directors.

Non-EU citizens with a higher education qualification or extensive professional experience and a job offer in Spain.

A residence and work permit for highly qualified non-EU nationals to live and work in Spain for highly skilled roles.