Extended Paid Leave for Family Care
Under the newly approved Royal Decree-Law 5/2023, employees are entitled to paid leave for up to five days to care for a family member in cases of serious illness, accident, hospitalization, or surgery requiring home rest. This leave can be used for spouses, civil partners, relatives, or any person living in the same household who requires care. If the first day of leave falls on a public holiday or non-working day, the leave starts on the next working day. Employees may also choose the most critical days during hospitalization unless otherwise specified by a collective bargaining agreement.
Paid Leave for Urgent Family Reasons
Article 37.9 of the Workers’ Statute grants employees paid leave of up to four days per year for urgent family matters. This applies when immediate presence is needed due to illness or accidents involving relatives or cohabitants. The leave can be taken hourly, offering flexibility in managing emergencies until the four day limit is reached.
Paid Leave for Relocation
Employees are entitled to one day of paid leave to manage relocation from their usual residence. Certain collective agreements may extend this leave period.
Leave for Prenatal and Adoption Procedures
Expectant parents can take time off for prenatal examinations and childbirth preparation sessions. This also extends to individuals involved in adoption or foster care processes, allowing them to attend necessary information and preparation sessions without a loss in pay.
Paid Climate Leave
Spain has introduced a groundbreaking law that grants workers up to four days of paid leave during climate emergencies, such as severe floods. This measure aims to ensure worker safety in hazardous conditions when authorities issue alerts advising residents to stay home.
These progressive measures reaffirm Spain’s commitment to enhancing work-life balance, supporting employees during critical moments, and addressing new challenges such as climate-related emergencies.
