Spain
EU Blue Card – High Qualified

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Overview

The EU Blue Card is designed to attract international talent into the EU labor market.

It offers a combination of legal residence, employment rights, family benefits, and EU mobility.

Highlights

Legal residence and work rights in Spain.

Access to permanent residency after 5 years in the EU.

Benefits

Legal residence and work rights in the issuing country (as Spain).
Faster family reunification procedures.
Simplified mobility to other EU countries after 12–18 months.
Equal treatment with nationals regarding working conditions, education, and social
rights.
Access to permanent residency after 5 years in the EU.

Requirements

A university degree or equivalent professional qualifications.
A binding job offer or employment contract for at least one year.
A salary threshold above a national minimum level (varies by country). In Spain (2024): The minimum gross annual salary must be at least 1.5 times the national average — approximately €40,000 to €45,000, depending on the role
and region.
Job must match your education or professional background.
No criminal record and valid health insurance.
Mobility in the EU: Holders of a Blue Card from another EU country can apply for a Spanish one after 12–18 months, under simplified procedures.

Application process from home country

Gather required documents.
Submit to Spanish Consulate.
Wait for approval (1- 3 months)
Receive visa & travel to Spain within 3 months.
Register at local municipality. (From Spain)
Apply for TIE (residence card) within 30 days. (From Spain). Visa includes NIE number for identification.

How Charfort can help you?

Eligibility assessment, Application Submission

We review your profile and advise on meeting visa criteria.

Step-by-step support through the application and consular processes.

Rejection appeal assistance

If your application is denied, we help you understand the reasons, prepare the necessary documents, and guide you through the appeal process to improve your chances of success.

Document preparation, Ongoing legal support

Help preparing and organizing proof of income, employment, insurance, and other paperwork.

We gather your documentation and handle the submission of your application as
quickly as possible.

Application Follow-up

We proactively track the status of your application and respond to any requests from the authorities.

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about the process.

Who is eligible for an EU Blue Card in Spain?

Non-EU nationals with a higher education degree or at least 5 years of professional experience in a highly qualified position and a valid job offer in Spain that meets the minimum salary threshold.

How long is the EU Blue Card valid?

It is issued for 1–4 years depending on the employment contract, and can be renewed as long as the job requirements are met.

Can family members join me in Spain?

Yes. Spouses, registered partners, and dependent children can apply for residence permits. Family members generally have the right to work in Spain.

Can I change jobs while holding an EU Blue Card?

Yes, but you must notify the Spanish authorities and ensure the new job still meets the Blue Card requirements (salary and qualifications).

Can family members join me?

Yes. Spouses, dependent children, and sometimes dependent parents can apply for residence permits alongside the main applicant.

Does time on the EU Blue Card count toward permanent residency?

Yes. Time spent in Spain on an EU Blue Card counts toward long-term residence eligibility and may accelerate the path to permanent residency.

Contact us today

Charfort assists international clients in obtaining residence and citizenship under the respective programs. Contact us to arrange an initial private consultation.