Does time on the highly qualified professional permit count toward long-term residence?

Years spent legally and continuously in Spain on an HQP permit normally count toward the five-year residence requirement for Spain's long-term residence authorisation. This makes it a viable path to settling permanently.

To preserve your eligibility, keep your permits renewed without gaps and avoid absences from Spain beyond the limits allowed for long-term residence. Maintaining a clean record and continuous status throughout is what makes the eventual transition to long-term residence possible.