Spain’s EU Blue Card: What Employers Need to Know

The EU Blue Card is a great permit option for highly skilled non-EU professionals looking to work in Spain. For employers, it’s a straightforward way to hire top international talent while offering significant benefits to employees.

Here’s what you need to know about the EU Blue Card work permit in Spain, including eligibility, the application process, and the benefits it brings to both employers and employees.

Who Can Get an EU Blue Card in Spain?

To qualify, applicants must meet these conditions:

Job Offer: A work contract for at least six months in a highly skilled position.
Salary Requirement: A minimum gross annual salary of €40,077 (2025).
Exceptions:
1) Applicants under or up to 30 years old at the time of submission may qualify with a 0.75 reduction coefficient - €30,058 gross annually.
2) Directors and Managers: €54,142 (reduced to €40,607 for applicants under or up to 30).
3) Recent graduates or high-demand roles may be eligible at 80% of the standard salary.

Qualifications: A three-year bachelor’s degree (EQF Level 6 or equivalent), or at least five years of relevant professional experience. For ICT professionals and managers, 3 years of relevant experience in the past 7 years is sufficient.
Regulated Professions: If required, proof of compliance with national professional standards.

How to Apply for an EU Blue Card

1 Secure a Job Offer from a Spanish Employer	Secure a job offer from a Spanish employer.
2 Check Eligibility	Check Eligibility to confirm the applicant meets salary and qualification requirements.
3 Gather Documents	Gather Documents, including: Completed application form Passport Passport-sized photos Work contract Proof of qualifications Criminal record certificate from countries of residence in the past 2 years Updated CV Proof of payment of the application fee Legalization: Some documents may require apostille/legalization and certified Spanish translation.
4 Employer Action	The employer usually submits the application electronically.
5 Submit the Application	The application is always submitted online and can be filed either while the employee is in Spain — if the applicant has legal status in Spain (e.g., as a tourist, student, etc.) — or while the employee is still outside of Spain.
6 Pay Fees	The application fee was €73.26 in 2024 (subject to change).
7 Processing Time	Processing times vary, typically taking several weeks to 3-4 months.
8 Visa Issuance	If the application (step 5) was submitted while the employee was outside of Spain, then a visa must be obtained before traveling to Spain.
9 Enter Spain	Once the visa is issued, the applicant may enter Spain.
10 Residency Card	Within one month of arrival, the applicant must apply for a residency card (TIE).

Read our full Guide to NIE and TIE Requirements for Employers.

‍

Benefits of the EU Blue Card

For Employees:

Social Security: Access to the same benefits as Spanish workers, including healthcare, unemployment, and pensions.
Work Rights: Legal right to live and work in Spain. The Spanish Blue Card doesn’t automatically allow work in other EU countries. Each country requires a separate application and approval process.
Residency & Mobility:
- Valid for up to 3 years, renewable for 2 years.
- Long-term residency after 5 years in the EU.
- Possibility to visit other EU countries for up to three months (90 days) during a six-month period (180 days).
Family Reunification: Spouses and children can join the Blue Card holder.
Spouse Work Rights: Spouses may work in Spain without additional restrictions.
Equal Workplace Rights: Access to the same rights, education, and public services as Spanish workers.

For Employers:

Simplified Hiring: No labor market test required.
Access to International Talent: Attract and retain highly skilled workers.
Flexible Contracts: Hire for highly qualified roles lasting at least 6 months.
Faster Processing: Fewer bureaucratic steps than standard work visas.
Employee Retention: Family reunification and long-term residency help keep talent.

Employer Responsibilities

To support an EU Blue Card application, employers should:

Offer a Qualifying Job: Ensure the position meets salary and skill requirements.
Assist with Paperwork: Help employees gather necessary documents.
Stay Updated: Monitor changes to salary thresholds and application fees.
Support Relocation: Guide employees through the residency card process after arrival.

‍Conclusion

The EU Blue Card makes it easier for employers in Spain to hire highly skilled non-EU professionals. It reduces administrative steps, speeds up hiring, and offers long-term benefits for both employers and employees.

If you're looking to hire international talent in Spain, our local team can simplify the process, assisting your hires from visa and permit to settling-in. Book a free consultation to understand how we can support your global mobility needs.

No FAQs Found

Was this helpful?

Yes No