HQP vs Blue Card: which Spanish visa is right for you?
Two skilled-worker routes under the Entrepreneurs Law: the Highly Qualified Professional permit, and the EU Blue Card, which adds EU-wide mobility for graduate-level roles.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) (HQP) | EU Blue Card (Blue Card) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | Highly qualified staff or managers hired by a Spanish company under the Entrepreneurs' Law fast track. | Highly qualified non-EU professionals with a Spanish job offer meeting the salary threshold. |
| Government cost | ~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€75 (790-038) | ~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€410 (790-062) |
| Processing time | ~20 working days | ~20-90 days |
| Length of stay | Up to 3 years, renewable 2 years | Up to 3 years, renewable; EU mobility rights |
| Where to apply | Online to the UGE (Large Companies Unit) in Spain | Online to the UGE in Spain; visa at consulate if abroad |
| Work rights | Qualified/management role with the sponsor | Qualified employment with the sponsor |
| Pathway to PR | Counts toward 5 years for long-term residence. | Time in other EU states can count toward EU long-term residence. |
Which is right for you?
Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) (HQP)
Highly qualified staff or managers hired by a Spanish company under the Entrepreneurs' Law fast track.
Full HQP guide →EU Blue Card (Blue Card)
Highly qualified non-EU professionals with a Spanish job offer meeting the salary threshold.
Full Blue Card guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, HQP or Blue Card?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) (HQP) is the lowest at ~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€75 (790-038). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, HQP or Blue Card?
Indicatively Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) (HQP) is the quickest at ~20 working days. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between HQP and Blue Card?
Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) (HQP) is for highly qualified staff or managers hired by a Spanish company under the Entrepreneurs' Law fast track. EU Blue Card (Blue Card) is for highly qualified non-EU professionals with a Spanish job offer meeting the salary threshold.