Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013)
Highly qualified staff or managers hired by a Spanish company under the Entrepreneurs' Law fast track.
The Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) 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 ~€75 (790-038)) and processing time (~20 working days), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) is for
Highly qualified staff or managers hired by a Spanish company under the Entrepreneurs' Law fast track.
Counts toward 5 years for long-term residence.
Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) - eligibility criteria
- Job offer for a qualified, technical or managerial role
- University degree or equivalent senior experience
- Salary in line with the position and market
- Employer meets turnover/headcount or strategic criteria
- Clean criminal and immigration record
Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) (Spain) is ~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€75 (790-038), with an indicative processing time of ~20 working days. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online to the UGE (Large Companies Unit) in Spain |
| Length of stay | Up to 3 years, renewable 2 years |
| Work rights | Qualified/management role with the sponsor |
| Study rights | Permitted |
| Government fee | ~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€75 (790-038) |
| Processing time | ~20 working days |
| Route to PR | Counts toward 5 years for long-term residence. |
Pathway & next steps
Counts toward 5 years for long-term residence.
Many applicants also compare Blue Card · EU Blue Card, ICT · Intra-Company Transfer Permit (Ley 14/2013), Cuenta Ajena · Residence and Work Authorisation (Employed). 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 Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) pitfalls we fix
Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) cost?
The Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) government fee is ~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€75 (790-038). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs before applying.
How long does the Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~20 working days. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013) lead to permanent residence?
Counts toward 5 years for long-term residence.
Can I work on the Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013)?
Work rights: Qualified/management role with the sponsor.
Who can apply for the Highly Qualified Professional (Ley 14/2013)?
Highly qualified staff or managers hired by a Spanish company under the Entrepreneurs' Law fast track.
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