Paid Leave in Spain: A Practical Guide for Employers
What paid leave is
Paid leave consists of justified, paid absences regulated by Article 37 of the Workers Statute. The worker keeps their salary provided they give advance notice and justify the reason.
Main types of leave
- Marriage or partnership registration: 15 calendar days.
- Death, accident or serious illness of relatives up to the second degree: the days set by law or the agreement.
- Moving house: usually 1 day.
- Public duties (voting, jury service): the indispensable time.
- Prenatal examinations and childbirth preparation.
Family force-majeure leave
After the 2023 reform, there is family force-majeure leave of up to four days a year for urgent family reasons, in addition to parental leave. It is wise to update internal policies to reflect these rights.
Recording leave correctly avoids confusing it with unjustified absence and protects the worker's rights.
Leave and the time record
Although they are paid absences, leave must be identified in the system so it is not counted as worked time or as absence. Good control distinguishes holidays, leave and sick leave.
With RegulaKit your staff request leave, attach the supporting document, and the system distinguishes it from other absences. Manage leave on our platform.
Conclusion
Knowing paid leave and recording it well avoids payroll errors and disputes. Having policies updated with the new family rights is key for 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days of leave are there for marriage?
15 calendar days, unless the collective agreement improves it.
What is family force-majeure leave?
Leave of up to four days a year for urgent family reasons, introduced in the 2023 reform.
Is paid leave paid?
Yes, the worker keeps their salary if they give notice and justify the reason.
Must leave be recorded?
Yes, it must be identified in the system so it is not counted as work or as absence.
Who sets the duration of leave?
The law sets the minimums and the collective agreement can improve them.