1. What is the EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is a work permit that allows highly skilled non-EU citizens to live and work in any country within the European Union (EU). It was established to attract and retain highly qualified workers from outside the EU, and to make Europe more competitive in the global market for talent. The card is valid for up to four years and can be renewed or extended under certain conditions.2. Who is eligible for an EU Blue Card?
To be eligible for an EU Blue Card, you must:
– Have a valid job offer in a highly skilled role from a company within the EU
– Have completed higher education (usually a four-year degree) or have at least five years of professional experience
– Meet the salary threshold of the country you will be working in (this may vary between countries)
– Have health insurance
– Pass a language proficiency test, demonstrating at least basic knowledge of the host country’s language
3. What are the benefits of an EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card has several benefits, including:
– Longer duration: The card is valid for up to four years, making it easier for highly qualified workers to secure long-term employment in the EU.
– Mobility: With an EU Blue Card, you have the right to move between different member states without needing separate work permits.
– Family reunification: You can bring your family members with you to live in the same country as long as you can support them financially.
– Permanent residence: After five years of legal residence, you may be eligible for permanent residence in your host country.
– Access to social security benefits: As a holder of an EU Blue Card, you have access to social security benefits such as healthcare and pensions in your host country.
4. How do I apply for an EU Blue Card?
You must apply for an EU Blue Card through the national immigration authority in the country where you will be working. The application process may vary slightly between countries, but generally, you will need to submit the following documents:
– A valid passport
– Proof of education or work experience
– A valid job offer or employment contract
– Proof of sufficient language skills
– Proof of health insurance
5. Can I switch jobs with an EU Blue Card?
Yes, you can switch jobs with an EU Blue Card under certain conditions. If you are switching jobs within the same country, you must apply for a new residence permit and have your new employment contract approved by the national immigration authority. If you are switching to a job in a different EU member state, you will need to apply for a new EU Blue Card in that country.
6. Can I bring my family with me on an EU Blue Card?
Yes, you can bring your family members, including your spouse/partner and children, with you to live in the same country as long as you can support them financially. They may also be eligible for a work permit once they arrive in the host country.
7. Are there any limitations on an EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue card comes with certain limitations and conditions that must be met. These may vary between countries but can include:
– You must work in highly skilled employment – no unskilled labor is allowed.
– You must earn at least 1.5 times the average salary in your host country.
– You must renew your permit before it expires.
– You may not stay outside of Europe for more than 12 consecutive months without losing the card’s validity.
– Your residence permit may be revoked if you lose your job or fail to meet other requirements.
Overall, the limitations aim to ensure that the card is granted and used for its intended purpose – attracting highly skilled workers to contribute to Europe’s economic growth.
2. How does one obtain an EU Blue Card?
To obtain an EU Blue Card, an individual must meet the following requirements:1. Have a tertiary education diploma or professional qualifications deemed equivalent to a tertiary education diploma.
2. Have a valid job offer or employment contract for highly qualified employment in an EU country.
3. The job offer must have a salary that is at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in the EU country where the job is located.
4. The individual must have at least 5 years of professional experience relevant to the job they are being offered (3 years if they hold a Master’s degree).
5. Have valid travel documents and health insurance.
6. Apply for the Blue Card in the EU country where they intend to work.
Applicants may also be required to pass language proficiency tests and undergo medical examinations, depending on the country issuing the Blue Card.
It is important to note that each EU member state has its own specific requirements for obtaining a Blue Card, so it is important to check with the relevant national authorities before starting the application process.
3. What are the requirements for getting an EU Blue Card in Spain?
To be eligible for an EU Blue Card in Spain, the following requirements must be met:
1. Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizenship: The applicant must be a citizen of a non-EU/EEA/Swiss country.
2. Valid job offer: The applicant must have a valid job offer or employment contract from a company based in Spain.
3. High-skilled profession: The job offer must be for a high-skilled profession that requires specific qualifications and skills.
4. Qualifications: The applicant must hold a university degree or equivalent qualification.
5. Sufficient work experience: The applicant must have at least 5 years of relevant work experience in their field of expertise.
6. Adequate salary: The minimum salary requirement is set at 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Spain (currently €26,230). This requirement may be lower for professions in high-demand or shortage occupations.
7. Health insurance: The applicant must have health insurance coverage for themselves and any family members accompanying them to Spain.
8. No public charge: The applicant cannot rely on public funds or social benefits in Spain, unless it is temporary assistance during an unforeseen period of unemployment.
9. Clean criminal record: The applicant must provide a certificate of no criminal record from their home country and any other countries where they have lived in the past five years.
Other supporting documents may also be required, such as proof of accommodation, financial means to support oneself, and proof of language proficiency.
Note: These requirements may vary slightly depending on the specific circumstances and region within Spain where the application is being made. It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or authorities for more detailed information.
4. Can non-EU citizens apply for an EU Blue Card in Spain?
Yes, non-EU citizens can apply for an EU Blue Card in Spain if they meet the eligibility requirements. These include having a valid work contract or job offer from a Spanish employer, a university degree or five years of professional experience, and sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay. It is also necessary to have a valid residence permit and pass a language proficiency test in either Spanish, English, or another official language of the European Union.
5. Is there a limit on the number of EU Blue Cards that can be issued in Spain each year?
There is no specific limit on the number of EU Blue Cards that can be issued in Spain each year. However, the number of cards issued may vary depending on the demand for highly skilled foreign workers and the availability of job opportunities in certain sectors. Each year, the Spanish government sets a national quota for highly skilled workers who are eligible for an EU Blue Card, which can potentially affect the number of cards issued.
6. What benefits does an EU Blue Card holder have in terms of work and residency rights in Spain?
As an EU Blue Card holder in Spain, you will have the following work and residency rights:
1. Work Rights: The EU Blue Card allows highly skilled non-EU nationals to work in Spain in a highly qualified job for a period longer than three months. This means that you will have the right to work and earn a living in any member state of the European Union, including Spain.
2. Residence Permit: You can enter Spain with your EU Blue Card and obtain a residence permit for up to four years. After this period, you can renew your residence permit for another two years as long as you meet the requirements for renewal.
3. Ease of Movement: As an EU Blue Card holder, you can move freely within the EU member states after 18 months of working in Spain.
4. Family Reunification: Your spouse and children under the age of 21 can also join you in Spain if they meet the necessary requirements for family reunification.
5. Access to Social Benefits: You will have access to social benefits like healthcare, education, and social protection on par with citizens of Spain.
6. Permanent Residence: After five continuous years living and working in Spain with an EU Blue Card, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence in Spain.
7. Travel Privileges: With an EU Blue Card from Spain, you will be able to travel visa-free within the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a six-month period.
8. Equal Treatment: The rights granted by an EU Blue Card are on par with Spanish citizens and provide equal treatment regarding working conditions, pay, dismissal, etc.
9. Mobility Within Europe: If you find a job in another EU member state while holding an EU Blue Card from Spain, you can transfer your permit without having to wait 18 months or reapply for it.
10. Enjoy Fundamental Rights: As a holder of an EU Blue Card, you will enjoy all fundamental rights guaranteed by EU law. This includes non-discrimination on grounds of nationality, race, religion, age, or sexual orientation.
7. Are there any language requirements for obtaining an EU Blue Card in Spain?
Yes, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the official language(s) of the autonomous community where they are applying for the EU Blue Card. This can be done through a language exam or by providing evidence of a university degree or professional qualification obtained in that language. Some autonomous communities may also accept proof of employment in a Spanish-speaking company as an alternative to a language exam. Additionally, knowledge of one of the other official languages of the European Union is also required.
8. Can an EU Blue Card holder bring their family members to live with them in Spain?
Yes, an EU Blue Card holder in Spain can bring their family members to live with them. According to Spanish immigration laws, family members who are eligible to join an EU Blue Card holder include the spouse or registered partner, children under 18 years old, and dependent children over 18 years old if they are not married and rely on the EU Blue Card holder for their financial support. Family members may also have the right to work in Spain.
9. Does holding an EU Blue Card lead to permanent residency or citizenship in Spain?
Holding an EU Blue Card does not automatically lead to permanent residency or citizenship in Spain. However, after 5 years of continuously holding the EU Blue Card and fulfilling certain conditions, such as language proficiency and integration requirements, you may be eligible to apply for long-term residence status or citizenship in Spain.
10. Are there any specific job categories that are eligible for the EU Blue Card in Spain?
Yes, the EU Blue Card in Spain is available for highly skilled workers in the fields of science, engineering, technology, mathematics, and medical professions. Other eligible job categories may include managerial and executive positions, professionals with specialized knowledge or years of experience in their field, and other high-demand occupations as determined by Spanish authorities.
11. Do I need a job offer before applying for an EU Blue Card in Spain?
No, you do not need a job offer before applying for an EU Blue Card in Spain. However, you must meet certain criteria and requirements, including having a university degree or five years of professional experience in a highly skilled occupation that is in demand in Spain. Having a job offer can make the application process smoother, but it is not mandatory for obtaining an EU Blue Card.
12. How long is the validity period of an EU Blue Card in Spain?
The validity period of an EU Blue Card in Spain is initially one year, but can be renewed for up to two years at a time. After five years of continuous residence, the card can be renewed for a period of 10 years.
13. Is it possible to switch jobs while holding an EU Blue Card in Spain?
Yes, it is possible to switch jobs while holding an EU Blue Card in Spain. However, there are certain requirements that must be met in order to do so:1. The new job must still meet the requirements for an EU Blue Card, such as a salary threshold and degree qualifications.
2. The new job must be in the same field as your current job.
3. You will need to apply for a new residence and work permit with the new employer.
4. Your current EU Blue Card must still be valid at the time of application for the new permit.
5. If you have held the EU Blue Card for less than 18 months, you may need to provide proof that your previous job was terminated through no fault of your own.
It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or the Spanish authorities for specific guidance on switching jobs while holding an EU Blue Card in Spain.
14. Do I need to have a certain level of education or qualifications to apply for an EU Blue Card in Spain?
Yes, in order to apply for an EU Blue Card in Spain, you must have a certain level of education or qualifications. You must have a university degree equivalent to at least three years of study and demonstrate that your salary will be at least 1.5 times the average annual salary in Spain (as published by the National Institute of Statistics). Additionally, if your profession is regulated in Spain, you must also provide proof of any necessary licenses or qualifications required for that profession.
15.How long does it take to process an application for an EU Blue Card in Spain?
It takes approximately 30 days for an application for an EU Blue Card to be processed in Spain. This can vary slightly depending on the workload of the immigration authorities and the completeness of the application.
16. Can I apply for permanent residency while holding an EU Blue card in Spain?
Yes, you can apply for permanent residency while holding an EU Blue card in Spain. After living and working in Spain for 5 continuous years, you may be eligible to apply for a long-term residence permit or the Spanish nationality. You will need to fulfill certain criteria, such as having an employment contract, sufficient financial resources, and proof of integration into Spanish society. As an EU Blue card holder, you may also be able to submit your application through the streamlined process designed for graduates or highly skilled employees. However, it is important to note that the rules and requirements may vary depending on your individual circumstances and nationality. It is recommended to seek advice from a licensed immigration lawyer or the relevant government agency before submitting your application for permanent residency.
17. What happens if my job contract ends before the validity period of my EU Blue card?
If your job contract ends before the validity period of your EU Blue Card, you will need to either find a new job with a different employer or leave the country. The EU Blue Card is tied to your specific employment and does not allow you to stay in the country if you are no longer employed. You may be able to apply for a different type of residence permit, depending on your individual circumstances and the laws of the country where you are living. It is important to consult with immigration authorities for guidance on your options.
18.Do I need to renew my EU blue card every year?
Yes, the EU blue card must be renewed every two years. Before it expires, you will need to submit a renewal application and meet the eligibility requirements to continue working and living in the EU country where your EU blue card was issued.
19.How is the salary threshold determined for obtaining an EU blue card in Spain?
The salary threshold for obtaining an EU blue card in Spain is determined by the Spanish government. The exact amount may vary based on factors such as the job market and cost of living in different regions of Spain. Generally, the minimum annual salary for obtaining an EU blue card in Spain is set at 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Spain, which is currently around 25,000 euros per year (2021). This can be adjusted based on specific professions or occupations with higher salary requirements.
20.Are there any changes expected to the criteria for getting an EU blue card after Brexit?
As of now, it is not clear how Brexit will affect the criteria for getting an EU blue card. The UK government has yet to reach a final agreement with the European Union on their future relationship and immigration policies post-Brexit. Any changes to the criteria for getting an EU blue card will depend on the outcome of these negotiations. It is advisable for individuals interested in obtaining an EU blue card to regularly check for updates on Brexit and its impact on immigration policies.