Spain work visas: highly qualified, Blue Card and employment

There are three main routes to work in Spain: the highly qualified (PAC) permit and the EU Blue Card for specialist jobs paying at least about €41,356 a year, and ordinary employment with a Spanish employer's contract. The specialist routes are processed faster and the family can come at the same time.

Routes compared

Highly qualified permit and Blue Card

• The salary floor is 1.4 × Spain's average gross salary and was updated in June 2026 to €41,356.36.
• The employer usually files with the large-companies unit (UGE), and processing takes a few weeks.
• The spouse and children can apply at the same time, and the spouse may work.

Ordinary employment

• The employer files the permit application in Spain; once approved, the worker gets the visa at the consulate.
• Under the new regulation the first permit lasts 1 year, and the renewal 4 years, valid for employment or self-employment anywhere in Spain.
• The regulation provides a 12-month job-search visa for specific cases (including children and grandchildren of Spaniards).

Steps

1. Find an employer and agree the contract and salary
2. Have your degree recognised where needed and your documents sworn-translated
3. The employer files the permit, then you apply for the visa at the consulate
4. Enter Spain, register with social security and get your TIE card

Frequently asked questions

What is the Spain Blue Card salary in 2026?

€41,356 a year; €33,085 for shortage occupations or graduates of the last 3 years.

Can I move to Spain to work without a job offer?

Not for most people; the job-search visa exists only in limited cases. Students can stay up to 24 months after their studies to look for work in Spain.

Can my spouse work if I hold a highly qualified permit?

Yes. Families of highly qualified and Blue Card holders get residence at the same time, and the spouse can work.

Amounts reflect the June 2026 update and the rules as of October 2026.