The Residence for Highly Qualified Professionals (PAC) is a permit that allows Spanish companies to incorporate foreign talent with high qualifications in an agile and efficient manner. This permit is regulated by Law 14/2013, of September 27, on support for entrepreneurs and their internationalization.
In other words, Spain could be looking for you.
Who can apply for this authorization?
Companies wishing to hire foreign professionals to perform high-level managerial or technical roles can apply for this authorization. Specifically, it is aimed at:
- Graduates or postgraduates from renowned universities and business schools.
- Holders of higher professional education qualifications.
- Specialists with at least 3 years of professional experience in a comparable field.
In other words, you can either have a university degree, a technical degree, or three years of experience.
Job Position Requirements
The offered position must be managerial or technical in nature, requiring high-level specialization. It is essential to clearly define responsibilities and duties, ensuring they align with the candidate’s education and experience. Additionally, the salary must be competitive and in line with the level of responsibility, generally around:
- Directors and managers: Minimum salary of €54,578 gross per year.
- Other technical and scientific professionals: Minimum salary of €40,400 gross per year.
We may apply reductions to the gross annual salary if the worker is under 30 years old.
Application Process
- Submission of the application:
- Online: The most recommended option. The company must have a digital certificate to access the platform provided by the Unit for Large Companies and Strategic Groups (UGE-CE).
- In person: At the UGE-CE headquarters in Madrid or at any public registry of the Delegations or Subdelegations of the Government.
- Required documentation:
- General:
- Application form.
- Complete passport of the professional.
- Public or private health insurance with coverage in Spain.
- Proof of financial means for the professional and their family.
- Specific:
- Employment contract or professional relationship with the company.
- Detailed description of the position and candidate profile.
- Documentation proving professional qualifications: academic titles, certificates of experience, etc.
- Evidence that the company complies with the requirements mentioned above.
- General:
- Resolution:
The UGE-CE has 20 working days to resolve the application. If there is no response within that time, the application is considered approved by tacit approval.
Duration and Renewal
The initial authorization is valid for up to 3 years or the duration of the contract if it is shorter. It is renewable for successive periods, as long as the conditions that led to its granting remain unchanged. It is important to notify any changes in the work or business conditions to the UGE-CE within 30 days.
Additional Benefits
- Mobility within the EU: Allows movement within the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Family reunification: The professional can apply for residency for their spouse and children under 18 or dependents, either together or later.
- Access to the labor market for family members: Family members reunited in Spain can work without needing additional permits.
Final Considerations
It is essential that both the company and the professional seek proper advice before starting the process, ensuring they meet all the requirements and prepare the necessary documentation. Proper planning facilitates obtaining the authorization and ensures the successful integration of the professional into the Spanish labor market.
Remember, we can assist you with all the management. Schedule a consultation with our team.
