To work in Spain as a highly-qualified worker, you must obtain:
- a work and residence permit; and
- work and residence visa.
You can also apply for the highly-qualified professionals permit (a national residence permit, parallel to the EU Blue Card).
WORK AND RESIDENCE PERMIT/VISA
Where and how to apply
Before you apply for your work and residence visa at the Embassy or Consulate in your country of originSearch for available translations of the preceding link, your employer must obtain a work permit.
Documents required
See documents required hereSearch for available translations of the preceding link.
Further requirements
Once you arrive in Spain, you must get a Foreign identification card (known as TIE) if you are staying for over 6 months, and the employer should register with the Social Security System as a worker.
Duration of validity of permits
The initial work permit is granted for one year and is renewable.
Appeals
Decisions can be challenged by way of an administrative appeal.
Further information
More on working in SpainSearch for available translations of the preceding link (in Spanish)
HIGHLY-QUALIFIED PROFESSIONALS UNDER LAW 14/2013
Where and how to apply
The national permit related to highly-qualified professionalsSearch for available translations of the preceding link is regulated under Law 14/2013. In case of highly-qualified professionals the hiring company is the one obliged to apply for it.
Documents required
See documents required hereSearch for available translations of the preceding link.
Further requirements
The company hiring highly-qualified professionals must meet one of the characteristics in article 71 of Law 14/2013.Search for available translations of the preceding link
Duration of validity of permits
Up to two years or duration of the contract in case it is less than two years. Renewable for two more years if initial conditions are maintained.
Appeals
Decisions can be challenged by way of an administrative appeal.
Further information
Change of employment
Your work permit is tied to one sector and subject to geographical limits.
Any change in your employment must remain within these limits during the first year.
Change of status
You must submit a new application and meet the necessary conditions.
Long-term residence
Long-term residence is generally granted after five years of continuous and legal residence.
This status enables the holder to reside indefinitely and work in Spain.
More on long-term residence in SpainSearch for available translations of the preceding link (in Spanish)
HIGHLY-QUALIFIED PROFESSIONALS UNDER LAW 14/2013
Change of employment
Your permit about highly-qualified professionals is valid to work and live all throughout Spain.
Change of status
You must submit a new application and meet the necessary conditions.
Long-term residence
Long-term residence is generally granted after five years of continuous and legal residence.
This status enables the holder to reside indefinitely and work in Spain.
No information available