EU Blue Card
Highly qualified non-EU professionals with a Spanish job offer meeting the salary threshold.
The EU Blue Card is a Spanish work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€410 (790-062)) and processing time (~20-90 days), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the EU Blue Card is for
Highly qualified non-EU professionals with a Spanish job offer meeting the salary threshold.
Time in other EU states can count toward EU long-term residence.
EU Blue Card - eligibility criteria
- Gross salary ≥ ~€40,077/year (reduced for shortage roles)
- Higher education qualification or 3-5 years' senior experience
- Work contract of at least 6 months
- Regulated-profession licence if applicable
- Clean criminal and immigration record
EU Blue Card cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the EU Blue Card (Spain) is ~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€410 (790-062), with an indicative processing time of ~20-90 days. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online to the UGE in Spain; visa at consulate if abroad |
| Length of stay | Up to 3 years, renewable; EU mobility rights |
| Work rights | Qualified employment with the sponsor |
| Study rights | Permitted |
| Government fee | ~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€410 (790-062) |
| Processing time | ~20-90 days |
| Route to PR | Time in other EU states can count toward EU long-term residence. |
Pathway & next steps
Time in other EU states can count toward EU long-term residence.
Many applicants also compare HQP · Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013), Cuenta Ajena · Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed), Larga Duración-UE · EU Long-Term Residence. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Spanish route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common EU Blue Card pitfalls we fix
EU Blue Card - frequently asked questions
How much does the EU Blue Card cost?
The EU Blue Card government fee is ~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€410 (790-062). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs before applying.
How long does the EU Blue Card take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~20-90 days. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the EU Blue Card lead to permanent residence?
Time in other EU states can count toward EU long-term residence.
Can I work on the EU Blue Card?
Work rights: Qualified employment with the sponsor.
Who can apply for the EU Blue Card?
Highly qualified non-EU professionals with a Spanish job offer meeting the salary threshold.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Spain government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs - official Spain immigration authority