Spain is an attractive destination for many international professionals, thanks to its high quality of life, dynamic cities, and thriving job market in sectors like tech, finance, and research. For skilled workers outside the EU, the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa (Visado de Residencia para Profesionales Altamente Cualificados) provides a streamlined path to working and living in Spain.
Who is eligible for the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa?
Eligibility for the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa is based on professional qualifications, job offer, and employer requirements. Here’s a breakdown:
Educational background and professional qualifications:
Applicants must hold a university degree or demonstrate significant professional experience in a specialized field.
Positions should ideally be senior roles or require specialized skills, such as executives, managers, researchers, or technical specialists.
Job offer from a qualified employer:
The applicant must have a formal job offer or signed employment contract from a Spanish employer.
The position should be relevant to the applicant’s expertise and meet the requirements for a highly qualified role.
Minimum salary threshold:
The minimum salary requirement varies based on the role and region. Generally, salaries must be above €40,000 per year for highly qualified positions.
In cities like Madrid and Barcelona, higher salary thresholds may apply.
Steps to apply for the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa
If you are planning to apply for the Highly Qualified Worker Visa, these are the steps you need to follow:
Secure a job offer:
The first step is to secure a job offer from a Spanish company that meets the employer's eligibility requirements. This job offer must align with your professional background and fulfill the criteria for a highly qualified role.
Gather required documents:
Passport: A valid passport with at least six months’ validity remaining.
Employment contract/job offer: A formal employment contract or offer letter from the Spanish employer, specifying the role, salary, and length of employment.
Proof of qualifications:
- University degree certificates, transcripts, and professional certifications.
- Translation of any foreign documents into Spanish, certified by an official translator if needed.
Criminal Background Check:
- A police clearance certificate from your home country or current country of residence, issued within the last three months.
Health Insurance:
- Proof of health insurance coverage, either through a private insurance policy in Spain or proof of coverage by your employer.
Financial Documents:
- Bank statements, payslips, or other documentation proving that you meet the minimum income requirement.
Submit the application:
Applications for the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa are generally submitted by the employer to Spain’s Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit (Unidad de Grandes Empresas y Colectivos Estratégicos or UGE-CE).
Once approved by the UGE-CE, you will apply for the visa at the nearest Spanish consulate or embassy.
Wait for processing:
Processing times for the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa are generally 20 working days from the submission date. It’s recommended to begin the process well in advance to account for potential delays.
Enter Spain and apply for TIE:
After arriving in Spain, the visa holder must register with the local Extranjería (immigration office) to apply for a TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero), or Foreigner’s Identity Card [link to article].
Benefits of the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa
The Highly-Qualified Worker Visa offers several advantages for applicants:
Fast processing time: The application is generally processed within 20 working days.
Family reunification: Spouses/partners and dependent children can join the visa holder in Spain and receive residence permits.
Freedom to travel in the Schengen Area: Visa holders can travel freely within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Pathway to permanent residency: After five years of continuous residence, visa holders may apply for permanent residency.
No requirement for a separate work permit: This visa serves as both a residence and work permit, allowing holders to start working immediately upon arrival.
How can we assist you?
1. Personalized Guidance and Document Review
We understand that your situation is unique, which is why we offer tailored advice to suit your individual needs. Whether you're a professional relocating for work, a retiree seeking to enjoy Spain’s climate, or a student enrolling in a university, our team will guide you through the specific documents required for your case. This includes:
Reviewing your contracts or proof of financial means.
Ensuring your health insurance complies with Spanish regulations.
Advising on additional documentation for dependents or family members.
Assisting with translations and legalization, including Apostilles.
2. Remote Appointment Scheduling and Administrative Tasks
Booking appointments with Spanish immigration offices can be complicated, especially if you don’t have experience navigating government websites. Our team will handle the cita previa (appointment scheduling) on your behalf, ensuring that you secure an appointment with the relevant Oficina de Extranjería or police station at the earliest convenience.
By taking care of these administrative tasks remotely, we save you time and the frustration of dealing with the often complex Spanish bureaucracy.
3. Full Legal Representation
Even though the Digital Nomad Visa might seem straightforward, complications can arise—particularly if you're missing documents or there are delays with your application. Our team of qualified professionals is well-versed in Spanish immigration law and will represent your interests with the local authorities, ensuring that any issues are resolved quickly and effectively.
4. Remote Support
Because our services are fully remote, we offer flexibility for clients living outside of Spain or those with busy schedules. You can rely on us to handle your case efficiently from a distance, without the need for in-person meetings, unless specifically required by the local authorities.
Why Choose Relocate Now?
Expertise in Spanish Immigration Law: We have an in-depth understanding of the regulations and procedures involved. We keep up to date with the latest legal developments, ensuring that your application is handled in compliance with current requirements.
Stress-Free Remote Service: From the initial consultation to document submission, we take care of everything remotely, allowing you to focus on your move without worrying about complicated legal or administrative tasks.
Tailored, Client-Centered Approach: At Relocate Now, we treat every client as an individual. Your case won’t be handled with a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we adapt our services to your specific situation and ensure that you receive personalized attention throughout the process.
Transparent Pricing: We offer competitive and transparent pricing with no hidden fees. From the beginning, you’ll know exactly what services you’re paying for, ensuring peace of mind and confidence in the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can my family members join me on the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa?
Can my family members join me on the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa?
Yes, your spouse or registered partner and dependent children can join you in Spain through the family reunification process. They will receive residence permits and, in some cases, can also work in Spain.
Is there a language requirement for the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa?
Is there a language requirement for the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa?
There is no official language requirement. However, for certain roles, companies may require proficiency in Spanish or other languages.
What is the minimum salary requirement?
What is the minimum salary requirement?
The minimum salary requirement varies but is typically around €40,000 per year for highly qualified positions. In cities like Madrid and Barcelona, the threshold may be higher to reflect the cost of living. Check with our Immigration specialists for more information.
Can I change jobs while on the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa?
Can I change jobs while on the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa?
Yes, you can change employers, but the new position must also meet the eligibility requirements. If the new employer doesn’t qualify under the visa criteria, you may need to reapply for a different visa type.
How long is the visa valid, and can it be renewed?
How long is the visa valid, and can it be renewed?
The initial visa is generally valid for two years. You can renew it as long as you maintain employment in a highly qualified position with an eligible employer.
Does the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa allow travel within Europe?
Does the Highly-Qualified Worker Visa allow travel within Europe?
Yes, visa holders can travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
How does this visa lead to permanent residency?
How does this visa lead to permanent residency?
After five consecutive years of living in Spain on the Highly Qualified Worker Visa, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency. Continuous residence means no absences of more than six consecutive months in a year.
What taxes will I need to pay as a Highly-Qualified Worker in Spain?
What taxes will I need to pay as a Highly-Qualified Worker in Spain?
Individuals residing in Spain for more than 183 days per year are deemed tax residents and are subject to Spanish taxation. However, Spain offers a special tax regime for Spanish Employees that can potentially lower your tax burden. In the following [link to article] we explain the special tax regime, the so-called Beckham Law regime, which prevents you from paying taxes on your non Spanish income.