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/Visa for highly qualified workers

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Visa for highly qualified workers

/ Base legal

/Art. 71 and 71 bis | Law 14/2013, de 27 de septiembre, de apoyo a los emprendedores y su internacionalización.

/ Objective

Steps to Submit the Application:
  1. Collect the required documents and ensure all requirements are met (it is advisable to visit the website of the Unit for Large Companies and Strategic Collectives for updated information).
  2. Pay the corresponding fee.
  3. Fill out the application using the standardized form. Instructions for completing the form are provided in the PDF.
  4. Submit the application through the “International Mobility Residence Authorization Applications” process available on the electronic platform.This can be submitted by the company or the foreign professional.
  5. Wait for the resolution and receive a notification. You can check the status of your application and receive updates through the Ministry’s Electronic platform.
In case outside Spain: Once the residence authorization is granted, the applicant must apply for a national visa at the consular office or diplomatic mission of their country.

/ Processing Notes

  • You will need an electronic certificate, Cl@ve, or electronic DNI for identification and electronic signing.
  • Information on document legalization and translation for immigration procedures is available.
  • If the applicant is a legal entity, the application form must be signed electronically by the legal representative.

/ General Requirements

  • Not being in Spain illegally.
  • Being over 18 years old.
  • Having no criminal record in Spain or the country where the applicant has resided for the last two years, for crimes under Spanish law.
  • Not being on the list of individuals barred from entering countries with which Spain has specific agreements.

/ Family Unit

The following family members may apply jointly or subsequently, for residence authorization and, if applicable, a visa:
  • Spouse or domestic partner.
  • Minor children
  • Adult children who are financially dependent on the applicant and have not formed their own family unit.
  • Dependent ascendants.
If the principal applicant and their family members submit applications simultaneously, they will be processed at the same time.

/ Links to Related Institutions

Unit for Large Companies and Strategic Collective
Contact: For functional and/or legal questions about the procedure, reach out to the managing unit: movilidad.internacional@inclusion.gob.es

/ Estimated Costs

  • Fee for the issuance of work authorizations for foreign citizens (Model 790 Code 038): 73,26 €
  • Visa fee: Approximately 80 € (subject to change depending on the country).

/ Average Processing Time

  • Authorization: 20 days
  • Visa: 10 business days

/ Types of Authorization

There are two types of residence authorization: For Highly Qualified Professionals Holding a Blue Card-EU.
  • A higher education qualification of at least three years, equivalent to at least Level 2 of MECES, corresponding to Level 6 of MECU and the same level as the EQF.
  • At least five years of professional experience relevant to the profession or sector.
  • For ICT professionals and directors: At least three years of experience in the last seven years.
National Residence Authorization for Highly Qualified Professionals.
  • A qualification equivalent to at least Level 1 of MECES (Level 5A of MECU)
  • At least three years of professional experience relevant to the required qualification.
Authorization Validity and Duration: The residence authorization is valid for three years, or the duration of the contract plus an additional three months if the contract is less than three years. After the initial period, it can be renewed for two more years, and after five years, applicants may apply for permanent residence.

/ Related Information

Consult other procedures