Latest: Continuous intake. No round-based selection. Applications accepted year-round subject to programme rules and country caps.
About the Highly Qualified Professional
The Highly Qualified Professional is Spain's skilled worker visa programme and one of the most direct routes to permanent residence, typically achievable within 5 years. Fast-track work and residence permit for senior managers, specialists, and STEM hires at companies recognised as 'large companies' or in strategic sectors. Processed under the streamlined Entrepreneurs Law track.
Applications are processed in 1–2 months on average. Government fees start at $200, and the visa is valid for 3 years. Employer sponsorship is required — you must have a qualifying job offer before applying.
To qualify, applicants generally need at least a Bachelor's degree and 3+ years of skilled work experience. A minimum salary of $45,000 per year is also required.
The Highly Qualified Professional is suited to work in tech.
Eligibility requirements
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
Can lead to PR in approximately 5 years.
Validity period
3 years (tied to employer)
Employer sponsorship required
You need a qualifying employer to sponsor your application.
How to apply for the Highly Qualified Professional
- 01
Secure a qualifying job offer
Find an employer in Spain willing to sponsor your HQP application. The role must meet occupation and salary requirements — minimum $45,000/year.
- 02
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials (minimum Bachelor's degree), employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 03
Submit your HQP application
File online through the official Spain immigration portal and pay the government fee of $200. Double-check all forms for errors before submission — mistakes cause delays.
- 04
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 05
Receive decision (1–2 months)
Standard processing takes 1–2 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
What it costs
Attorney fees and document costs not included. Total spend is typically 2–5x the government fee.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main requirements for the Highly Qualified Professional?
A minimum Bachelor's degree, 3+ years of relevant work experience, A qualifying job offer from a Spain employer, A salary of at least $45,000/year
How long does the Highly Qualified Professional take to process?
Processing time for the Highly Qualified Professional is typically 1–2 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official Spain immigration website for current processing times before applying.
How much does the Highly Qualified Professional cost?
The government application fee for the Highly Qualified Professional is $200 USD. Total costs — including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics — typically run 2–5x the base government fee. Budget accordingly before starting your application.
Does the Highly Qualified Professional lead to permanent residence?
Yes. The Highly Qualified Professional is one of the pathways to permanent residence in Spain. Eligible holders can generally apply for PR after approximately 5 years of qualifying residence. Conditions apply — consult a licensed immigration adviser for your specific situation.
Do I need a job offer for the Highly Qualified Professional?
Yes. A confirmed job offer from a qualifying Spain employer is required before you can apply for the Highly Qualified Professional. The employer typically needs to demonstrate they could not find a suitable local candidate and must meet specific sponsorship obligations.