Work permit in Spain for highly qualified professionals

Work Permit Spain

Permit for Entrepreneurs

Permit for Self-Employment

Permit for Employment

Who Can Apply for the Highly Qualified Professional Work Permit?

This permit is ideal for professionals in senior roles, such as directors, managers, engineers, or other specialized technical experts. To qualify for this residence and work authorization, you must: 

  • Have a valid job offer from a Spanish company. 
  • Possess specific qualifications or relevant experience in your field. 
  • Your role should fall under one of the categories in the National Occupation Code (either Group 1 for directors and managers, or Group 2 for technicians and professionals with university education). 

Key Requirements for Highly Qualified Professionals

To be considered a highly qualified professional in Spain, you must meet the following conditions: 

  1. Job Offer in Spain: You must have an employment contract that justifies the need for your specialized skills and knowledge. 
  2. Descriptive Memorandum: Your employer must submit a detailed description of your job position, including your responsibilities, salary, and role within the company. This document is essential for the application. 
  3. National Occupation Code: Your job must be classified under Group 1 (directors and managers) or Group 2 (technicians and intellectual professionals). 

Documentation Needed to Apply for the Highly Qualified Professional Permit

To apply for this work permit, you will need to provide the following documents: 

  • A signed employment contract outlining your position and conditions. 
  • The Descriptive Memorandum detailing your job functions, salary, and responsibilities. 
  • A valid passport and a certificate of no criminal record from the past five years. 
  • Proof of your qualifications or relevant experience in the field. 

How to Apply for the Highly Qualified Professional Work Permit

The application process for this permit is handled by the Large Business Unit (UGE) in Spain and follows these steps: 

  1. Submit the Application: The company hiring you must initiate the process by submitting the necessary documents. 
  1. Provide Supporting Documentation: The employer must submit the Descriptive Memorandum and other required documents. 
  2. UGE Evaluation: The UGE will assess whether the job meets the qualifications and requirements for highly qualified professionals. 
  3. Decision: The application process typically takes 20 business days. If approved, you will receive a two-year residence and work permit.

Renewing the Highly Qualified Professional Work Permit

The initial permit is valid for two years and can be renewed if the following conditions are met: 

  • You are still working in the same company and in the same position. 
  • You apply for the renewal within 60 days before or 90 days after the permit’s expiration. 

Maintaining the same job and responsibilities is crucial for the renewal process. The UGE may request additional documentation to ensure you still meet the necessary requirements. 

What Happens if You Change Companies?

The work permit for highly qualified professionals is directly tied to your job and the company that handled your initial application. If you change companies, you must inform the UGE and submit a new application. The new employer will need to demonstrate that you will continue to perform the same functions and responsibilities. 

Failing to notify the UGE of any change can result in the denial of your permit. It is important to follow the correct procedure to maintain your residence and work authorization. 

Family Reunification for Highly Qualified Professionals

If you have a highly qualified professional work permit, you can also bring certain family members to Spain. Eligible family members include: 

  • Your spouse or registered partner. 
  • Children under 18 or older children who are economically dependent on you. 
  • Parents of both you and your spouse, provided they are financially dependent and live with you. 

These family members will be able to reside and work in Spain as well. 

Frequently Asked Questions about the Highly Qualified Professional Work Permit

The Descriptive Memorandum is a key document for the application. It details the job responsibilities, salary, and position of the highly qualified professional within the company, and is essential for proving that the role requires specialized skills. 

The UGE typically resolves applications within 20 business days from the submission of all required documents. 

You must notify the UGE and submit a new application for the permit tied to your new company and role. Failure to do so may result in the denial of your work permit. 

No, the permit is tied to the specific responsibilities outlined in the original application. Any significant changes must be communicated to the UGE for reassessment.