Residence & Work Permit for Highly Qualified Professionals (PAC) in Spain — 2025 Guide

1) Introduction

Spain is an increasingly attractive destination for international talent thanks to its quality of life, strong sectors (tech, biotech, renewables, finance) and a favorable legal framework. This guide explains how Highly Qualified Professionals can obtain residence and work authorization in Spain in 2025.

2) What is the Highly Qualified Professional (PAC) Permit?

The PAC is a special residence and work authorization under Law 14/2013 designed to attract non-EU professionals for senior or specialist roles. It allows legal residence and employment in Spain in highly qualified positions.

3) Main Features

• Initial validity of 3 years, renewable.
• No national employment test (not subject to general labour market situation).
• Family can join simultaneously (spouse/partner, minor or dependent children).
• Streamlined process through the Large Companies & Strategic Groups Unit (UGE-CE).

4) Key Requirements

• Qualification: Higher education degree or, exceptionally, ≥3 years of comparable professional experience.
• Job offer in Spain: A firm offer for a role requiring high qualifications.
• Salary: Generally above market average. As a reference, at least €40,000/year (may vary by role and seniority).
• Job profile: Roles within Groups 1–2 of Spain’s CNO-11 (directors/managers; scientific & intellectual professionals).
• No criminal record: Clean record in Spain and countries of residence over the last five years.

5) Application Process

1. Employer submission: The company files the application with the UGE-CE.
2. Resolution (~20 business days): If there’s no response within that period, authorization is granted by positive administrative silence.
3. Visa (if abroad): Applicant requests the visa at the Spanish consulate.
4. Entry & start: Enter Spain and begin work once the visa is issued.
5. TIE: Within the first month in Spain, apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).

6) Advantages

• Faster processing than standard work permits.
• Electronic filing via UGE-CE; smoother admin.
• Quick decisions: Often within about a week in practice.
• Positive administrative silence after 20 business days.
• Nationwide validity: Work anywhere in Spain (remote-friendly).
• Application from Spain: Possible to apply in-country.
• Potential tax perks: Access to the “Beckham Law” special regime (see below).
• Counts toward long-term residence (EU long-term after 5 years).

7) Renewal & Path to Long-Term Residence

Initial authorization is 3 years, renewable for 2-year periods if conditions remain.

• Maintain the qualifying employment, or have a new qualifying offer.
• Absences: not more than 6 consecutive months or 10 non-consecutive months abroad during validity.
• Be current with tax and Social Security obligations.

After 5 years of continuous legal residence, you may apply for long-term residence in Spain.

8) Tax Implications (Beckham Law)

Many PAC holders may qualify for Spain’s special regime for inbound workers (“Beckham Law”):

• Flat 24% rate on employment income up to €600,000 per year (instead of progressive IRPF up to ~47%).
• Applies for up to 6 tax years, subject to eligibility criteria.
• Possible exemptions on certain foreign-source income (limits apply).

9) Strategic Sectors & Opportunities

10) How PAC Compares to Other Routes

• General employee permit: Subject to national employment situation; slower and stricter.
• Self-employment/entrepreneur: Requires viable business plan and funds.
• Researchers: Tailored to academic/research roles and entities.
• EU Blue Card: Similar seniority/salary logic; requirements and benefits differ.

11) MigratioLex — Your Partner for PAC Permits