SamirLaw

Highly Qualified Professionals in Spain: Comparing the HQP Permit and the EU Blue Card

Highly Qualified Professional Visa vs. EU Blue Card: Working in Spain as a Non-EU Citizen


Spain offers two similar pathways for non-EU professionals looking to live and work in the country: the Highly Qualified Professional (HQP) Visa and the EU Blue Card. While both permits provide legal residence and work rights, they differ in eligibility, mobility, and long-term strategy. This guide outlines their key features, similarities, and differences — and helps you determine which route is right for you or your company.


What is the HQP Visa?


The Highly Qualified Professional (HQP) Visa is a Spanish residence and work permit designed to attract non-EU executives, directors, and specialists with specific skills. It offers employers a streamlined option to recruit international talent — particularly in sectors like technology, engineering, and renewable energy — without the long process associated with traditional work permits.


Key Features of the HQP Visa:


  • Fast processing time: Up to 20 working days.
  • Initial validity: 3 years, renewable for 2.
  • Family reunification: Available for spouses/partner, children, and dependents. With full working rights.
  • Employer-specific permit: The residence is linked to the sponsoring company and position in Spain. With full working rights.
  • Eligibility:
  • University degree or 3+ years of documented professional experience.
  • Minimum salary (2025):
  • €54,142 for directors/managers
  • €40,077 for other professionals
  • Reduced by 0.75 for applicants under 30 (€30,058)


Important: After 5 years of continuous residence, workers can apply for long-term residency in Spain, granting them unrestricted employment rights.


What is the EU Blue Card?


The EU Blue Card is a residence and work permit valid in Spain and aligned with broader EU objectives to attract highly skilled professionals. It provides greater mobility within the EU and long-term integration opportunities, making it an attractive option for professionals seeking flexibility and broader career prospects.


Key Features of the EU Blue Card:


  • Fast processing: Up to 20 working days.
  • Initial validity: Up to 3 years, renewable for 2.
  • Family reunification: Available for spouses/partner, children, and dependents. With full working rights.
  • Eligibility:
  • University degree
  • OR 5+ years of relevant experience (3 years for ICT professionals in the last 7 years)
  • Minimum salary (2025):
  • €54,142 for directors/managers
  • €40,077 for others
  • €30,058 for applicants under 30
  • EU Mobility: After 12 months, you may apply to work in another EU member state under the Blue Card framework.


What Do HQP & EU Blue Card Have in Common?


Despite their differences, both permits share many beneficial features:


  • Permit to live and work legally in Spain
  • Fast-track processing (≈ 20 working days)
  • Valid for up to 3 years initially, with renewal options
  • Family reunification rights
  • Employer sponsorship required
  • Salary thresholds must be met
  • Many applicants may also qualify for Spain’s Beckham Law — a special tax regime offering reduced taxation and potential exemptions on foreign-source income


Long-Term Residency: After 5 years of uninterrupted legal residence, both permit holders may apply for residencia de larga duración (long-term residency), allowing them to work in Spain without restrictions.


Key Differences: Which Option is Best?


The HQP Visa is often the best option for non-EU professionals who may not hold formal degrees but possess valuable, documented experience. It is also ideal for companies needing specialized staff in Spain. On the other hand, the EU Blue Card offers greater flexibility for those seeking future employment across the EU and is geared toward university graduates.


What About the Beckham Law?


Many non-EU workers entering Spain under either the HQP or Blue Card framework may qualify for the Beckham Law, a special tax regime offering a flat 24% tax rate on Spanish-source income and exemptions on foreign income and capital gains for up to 6 years.


Proper planning is essential to apply the regime correctly — incorrect filings can lead to audits or lost benefits.


Need Help Navigating the Process?


At SamirLaw, we specialize in advising international professionals and their employers on Spanish immigration and tax matters. Whether you're an individual applicant or a business looking to hire from abroad, we can guide you through the eligibility, documentation, and application process — and help assess your access to tax advantages like the Beckham Law.


Contact us to schedule an initial consultation without charge to discuss your case.