Spain's national fast-track work visa for senior managers, highly qualified professionals, and graduates of prestigious universities.
Estimated Cost
$850
Processing Time
~1 months
Validity
36 months
The Highly Qualified Professional (HQP) permit is a Spain-specific (non-EU) permit complementary to the EU Blue Card. It targets senior management personnel, highly specialized technical experts, and recent graduates of top-ranked universities or business schools. Processing is faster than a standard work permit (20-25 business days) and does not require a labor market test. Salary requirements are generally around $43,000-$49,000/year depending on industry, and the visa supports intra-company transfers. Processed by UGECE (dedicated fast-track unit) rather than standard provincial labor offices.
Average: 1 months
Path to Residency
Path to Citizenship
~10 years
Valid passport*
Initial residence authorization from UGECE*
Obtained by employer or applicant from the Unit for Large Companies and Strategic Sectors (UGECE).
Employment contract meeting HQP salary thresholds*
Approximately $43,000-$49,000+/year depending on industry.
Higher education degree or senior management role*
Prestigious university/business school degree, or demonstrable senior management position.
Criminal background check*
Within 6 months, apostilled and Spanish-translated.
Health insurance*
| Fee | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application fee | $190 | One-time |
| Residence card issuance | $18 | Recurring |
| Document translation/apostille(optional) | $400 | One-time |
| Estimated Total | $850 |