Spain offers several employment-based residence options that allow companies to hire international talent. This overview explains the eligibility criteria, documentation, and processing timelines for the most common work permits so you can align your relocation strategy with current immigration rules.

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Overview of Spanish work permits

Spain’s immigration law differentiates between national law permits processed by provincial extranjería offices and special regimes handled by the Large Companies and Strategic Collectives Unit (UGE-CE). The route you choose depends on salary, job classification, and whether the company is transferring staff internally.

Highly Qualified Professional permit

The Highly Qualified Professional (HQP) permit targets managers, specialists, and graduates hired by large companies or strategic projects. Key points:

  • Minimum salary threshold typically set at 1.5x the Spanish average for comparable roles.
  • Employment contract must be indefinite or at least one year.
  • Employer must demonstrate financial solvency and compliance with tax/social security obligations.
  • Application is filed by the employer with UGE-CE and includes a copy of the employee’s degree or proof of experience.
  • Initial residence is granted for up to three years and renewable for two-year periods.

Intra-company transfer (ICT) permits

Multinationals can move staff to Spain under ICT rules:

  • ICT EU Blue Card for managers and specialists posted for more than 90 days.
  • ICT National for trainees or assignments that do not meet EU thresholds.
  • Applicants must have worked for the sending company for at least three to nine months (depending on category).
  • Transfer agreements should specify salary, duration, and location in Spain.
  • Family members may apply for dependent residence simultaneously.

General work permit (contingente general)

The traditional work permit requires a labour market test unless the role is on the shortage occupation list. Employers submit:

  • Employment contract stamped by the Labour Office.
  • Evidence of recruitment efforts in Spain/EU.
  • Proof that the company is up to date with Hacienda and Social Security.

After approval, the worker applies for a visa at the Spanish consulate in their home country. Upon arrival, they register fingerprints to obtain the TIE card.

Entrepreneur and startup visas

Spain’s Ley de Startups introduced streamlined permits for founders and remote executives:

  • Submit a business plan demonstrating innovation, scalability, and job creation.
  • Obtain a favourable report from ENISA or a recognised incubator.
  • Show sufficient financial means to support yourself and dependants.
  • Permits are issued for up to three years with the possibility of permanent residence after five years.

Document checklist

Prepare the following core items for most work permit filings:

  • Valid passport with at least one year remaining.
  • Legalised or apostilled academic qualifications.
  • Curriculum vitae and proof of professional experience.
  • Clean criminal record certificate for the previous five years.
  • Private health insurance or proof of Spanish Social Security registration.
  • Signed employment contract or transfer letter specifying salary and duties.

Processing times and renewals

  • UGE-CE decisions often arrive within 20 business days; silence implies approval.
  • Provincial extranjería timelines vary by region, averaging 2–3 months.
  • Once approved, visas must be collected within one month and you must enter Spain within the visa validity.
  • Submit renewal requests at least 60 days before expiration, providing updated contracts and Social Security history.

FAQs

Can I switch employers under the HQP permit? Yes, but notify UGE-CE and provide the new contract to maintain compliance.

Do work permits allow remote work for foreign companies? Generally no. Choose the Digital Nomad Visa if your employer remains outside Spain.

Can dependants work? Spouses and adult children may request work authorisation once in Spain, subject to local labour rules.

Need tailored support for your hiring plan? Book a call with our immigration team.