Are you a skilled professional from outside the EU considering working in Spain? The EU Blue Card is a great option to help you start your career in Spain and other EU countries. It’s a special permit designed for talented professionals like you, aiming to make it easier for you to live and work in Europe.

In this guide, we’ll cover what the EU Blue Card is, how you can qualify for it, and the steps you need to take to apply. We’ll also look at the benefits of the Blue Card, which not only offers a chance to work in Spain but also opens doors to other EU countries.

Ready to explore how the EU Blue Card can help you in your career journey in Spain? Let’s get started.

What is the EU Blue Card?

The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit designed for highly skilled non-EU nationals, enabling them to live and work in Spain and other EU countries. This permit aims to attract talented professionals from around the world to contribute to the European economy, fostering innovation and growth. 

The EU Blue Card offers a straightforward pathway for skilled workers to access the EU labor market. It’s similar to the Highly Qualified Professionals residence permit, targeting top international talent, though it varies in criteria and benefits.

What are the Blue Card Eligibility Requirements for Spain?

To be considered for an EU Blue Card in Spain, you must meet several key criteria that confirm your status as a highly skilled professional. Understanding these requirements will help you prepare your application effectively.

1. Valid Work Contract or Job Offer

You need to have a binding job offer or a work contract in Spain that lasts at least 6 months. The position must be classified as highly skilled, typically requiring a higher education qualification.

2. Salary Threshold

The salary offered must meet the minimum threshold set by Spanish authorities, which is at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Spain. For sectors experiencing a shortage of skilled workers, the threshold may be reduced to 1.2 times the average.

3. Higher Education Qualifications

You must possess a higher education qualification, such as a university degree, relevant to the job you are applying for. In some cases, substantial professional experience can be considered equivalent to a degree.

Each of these criteria ensures that the EU Blue Card is reserved for individuals who can bring high levels of expertise and knowledge to Spain’s workforce, thereby contributing positively to the nation’s economic growth and cultural diversity.

How to Apply for the EU Blue Card in Spain

Applying for the EU Blue Card involves a series of steps designed to assess your qualifications and fit for the program. Here’s a breakdown of the application process:

1. Gather Required Documents

Start by collecting all necessary documentation. This includes:

• A valid passport.
• A job contract.
• Proof of your qualifications.
• Evidence of health insurance coverage.
• A completed application form specific to the EU Blue Card.

2. Submit the Application

Once your documents are ready, submit your application through one of the following channels:

• If you are outside Spain, apply at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country or country of residence.
• If you are already in Spain legally, you can submit the application online.

3. Wait for a Decision

After submitting your application, there will be a waiting period during which the Spanish authorities review your application and verify your eligibility. The processing time for the EU Blue Card can vary, but it typically takes a few weeks. 

4. Receive the Blue Card

If your application is approved, you will be issued the EU Blue Card, allowing you to live and work in Spain. The card is usually valid for one to four years and can be renewed.

What Are the EU Blue Card Advantages?

The EU Blue Card not only permits you to work and reside in Spain but also offers several significant benefits that enhance your professional and personal life in Europe:

Access to the EU Labor Market

With an EU Blue Card, you gain the legal right to work not just in Spain, but also provides the possibility to move and work in other EU countries under certain conditions. This mobility allows you to pursue career opportunities across a wide range of industries and regions within the EU.

Family Reunification

The Blue Card scheme supports family unity by allowing you to bring your family members to Spain under favorable conditions. This means your spouse and children can join you in Spain, facilitating a smoother transition for your entire family.

Long-Term Residency

After five years of continuous residence in the EU, Blue Card holders can apply for long-term resident status. This status grants you more stability and broader rights within the EU.

Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

The EU Blue Card serves as a stepping stone to permanent residency and, eventually, Spanish citizenship, provided you meet the necessary conditions over time.

Equal Treatment

As a Blue Card holder, you enjoy equal treatment with nationals of the host country concerning working conditions, education, recognition of qualifications, and access to goods and services. This integration helps ensure a smoother transition and adaptation to your new environment.

What if you already have an EU Blue Card issued in another EU Member State?

If you have an EU Blue Card and have resided in another EU country for at least twelve months, or six months across multiple EU countries, you can transfer your Blue Card to Spain. Simply apply for the Spanish EU Blue Card upon arrival.

Already in Spain? Make sure to get your application in during the first month of your stay. And here’s a piece of good news: you can start working at your new job in Spain right away, even before your application is fully processed!

Simply put, the EU Blue Card makes it easy for skilled professionals like you to continue your career in Spain. It’s about leveraging your skills to contribute to the Spanish economy and enjoying the benefits of working in a dynamic and supportive environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About the EU Blue Card in Spain

1. Is the EU Blue Card valid if I travel outside of Spain?

Yes, the EU Blue Card remains valid for travel outside of Spain and the EU. However, the 90-day rule will still be in force when traveling to another country. 

2. What happens to my EU Blue Card if I lose my job in Spain?

If you lose your job while holding an EU Blue Card, you typically have 3 months to look for another job under this permit.

3. Can I apply for an EU Blue Card from within Spain if I am already there on a different type of visa?

Yes, if you are already in Spain on a different type of visa, such as a student or work visa, you may apply for an EU Blue Card from within the country, provided you meet all the necessary qualifications and have a valid job offer.

4. Are there language requirements for obtaining an EU Blue Card in Spain?

There are no specific language requirements to obtain an EU Blue Card. However, knowing Spanish may be beneficial for integration and is necessary if you want to apply for permanent residency or citizenship later on.

5. Can I change jobs or employers while on an EU Blue Card in Spain?

Yes, you can change jobs or employers while on an EU Blue Card. However, you must notify the immigration authorities and ensure that the new job also qualifies under the Blue Card scheme. Typically, you must have held your initial job for at least one year before changing.

Can Lexidy Help Me Get an EU Blue Card in Spain?

Absolutely! The EU Blue Card offers a fantastic opportunity for highly skilled professionals outside the EU to work and reside in Spain. From simplified access to the labor market to family reunification, and providing a pathway to long-term residency and citizenship, the EU Blue Card represents a significant opportunity for professionals looking to enhance their careers in Spain.

If you feel ready to take this step and need guidance, Lexidy is here to help! Our team of immigration experts specializes in navigating the complexities of the EU Blue Card application, ensuring you meet all the requirements with ease.

Ready to get started? Fill out the form below, and let us help you navigate your way to obtaining an EU Blue Card in Spain.