In Spain, the Workers' Statute primarily governs vacation leave entitlements.

Entitlement

Every employee in Spain has a right to a minimum of 30 calendar days of paid vacation each year, which is approximately 22-23 working days. If a worker has been employed for less than a full year, their leave is prorated accordingly. Some sectors or companies may provide more generous vacation allowances, as specified in their collective bargaining agreements.

Important Considerations

Typically, employers and employees agree on vacation schedules, considering operational needs. Spanish law forbids the substitution of accrued vacation time for monetary payment, except in cases of employment termination. Employees cannot waive their right to vacation time.

In Spain, there are several public holidays celebrated throughout the entire country. These include:

• New Year's Day: Celebrated on January 1st.
• Epiphany: Celebrated on January 6th.
• Good Friday: The date varies according to the Easter calendar.
• Labor Day: Celebrated on May 1st.
• Assumption of Mary: Celebrated on August 15th.
• National Day of Spain: Celebrated on October 12th.
• All Saints Day: Celebrated on November 1st.
• Constitution Day: Celebrated on December 6th.
• Immaculate Conception Day: Celebrated on December 8th.
• Christmas Day: Celebrated on December 25th.

Regional & Local Public Holidays

In addition to the national holidays, each of Spain's 17 autonomous communities designates up to two additional holidays with a regional focus. Furthermore, municipalities can designate up to two local holidays, often celebrating patron saints or festivals.

In Spain, employees are entitled to various types of leave.

Annual Leave

Employees are entitled to a minimum of 30 calendar days of paid annual leave per year, which is approximately 22-23 working days.

Sick Leave

Employees are entitled to paid sick leave. The duration and pay rate depend on the reason for the absence and may be covered by Social Security.

Maternity Leave

The birth mother is entitled to 16 weeks of paid maternity leave. The initial six weeks after birth are mandatory.

Paternity Leave

As of 2023, fathers are entitled to 16 weeks of paid paternity leave, on par with maternity leave.

Parental Leave

Employees are entitled to up to three years of unpaid leave per child for childcare purposes. Employees have the right to return to the same or similar position upon their return.

Marriage Leave

Employees are entitled to 15 days of paid leave for marriage.

Bereavement Leave

The length of bereavement leave varies depending on the relationship with the deceased and if travel is required. Typically, 2-4 days are granted.

Additional Leave Types

There are also other types of leave such as study leave for employees furthering their education, training leave to attend work-related training and development courses, and leave for public duties which may be paid or unpaid depending on the type of duties.

Important Considerations

Some Collective Bargaining Agreements offer more generous leave provisions than the legal minimums. Specific details regarding leave procedures are often found in company handbooks.