If your company is hiring or transferring a manager or specialist from outside the European Union, the highly qualified professional route is usually the fastest way to Spain. It was created by Law 14/2013 to attract talent and is processed centrally by the Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit (UGE-CE), not by the local immigration offices.
Who qualifies. The employee needs a higher-education degree of at least three years or, alternatively, at least five years of relevant professional experience. The company must offer a highly qualified job with a contract or firm offer of at least six months and a salary in line with the role. Some companies also qualify because of their size, investment or strategic sector.
How it works. The application is filed online with the UGE-CE. The law sets a 20-day deadline to resolve from electronic submission, and if there is no answer in that time the application is considered approved. If the employee is outside Spain, the approval is then used to obtain the visa at the consulate.
Documents HR usually prepares. Company documentation, the signed contract or offer, a description of the position, the employee's degree (legalised or apostilled and translated if needed) or proof of experience, a criminal record certificate, health insurance and a valid passport.
Family. Spouse or partner and children can apply at the same time, so the family can travel together. This is one of the main advantages of the route.
Validity. The permit is granted for up to three years, or for the duration of the contract plus three months, and can be renewed.
Our advice. Start as soon as the hire is likely. Most delays come from documents: degrees that need apostille, translations and criminal record certificates from the country of origin. We prepare a checklist per nationality on day one.
This guide is for general information and does not replace professional advice on each case.