Spain reduces working hours: how many hours will be worked per week?

The Changing Labor Market in Europe

The labor market is constantly evolving, as demonstrated by the recent reforms implemented by European countries.
In some cases, decisions taken are opposite: Greece, for example, has authorized a 6-day workweek to increase productivity, while Spain is working towards reducing working hours.

Italy and the Productivity Challenge

In Italy, the discussion about implementing significant changes is ongoing.
However, topics such as the “short week” are not among the government’s priorities under Meloni’s administration, which focuses on boosting productivity.

Spain’s Workweek Reduction Reform

In Spain, the Labor Minister Yolanda Díaz recently issued an ultimatum to employers to approve the government’s proposed workweek reduction.
While unions are in favor of the reform, employer associations seem reluctant to agree, without offering alternative solutions.
The Spanish government is determined to proceed, even considering approval solely with union consent if employers do not cooperate.

What Does the Spanish Workweek Reform Entail?

According to Spanish unions, the government’s proposal is a stepping stone towards a 35-hour workweek.
Initially, the proposed reduction will bring the workweek down to 38.5 hours from the current 40, to be effective throughout the ongoing year.

Starting from January 1, 2025, the limit would decrease to 37.5 hours, meaning Spanish workers will reduce their working time by 2.5 hours.
Compliance will be calculated annually, allowing flexibility in weekly hours, provided the average meets the 37.5-hour mark.

Similarities with Italy’s Working Hour Regulations

The situation echoes Italy’s approach, where monitoring of the 48-hour week (40 regular hours plus 8 extra) is assessed over a 4-month period.
Collective agreements may extend this limit up to 6 or even 12 months based on specific technical or organizational reasons.

Impact on Employers and Overtime

Employers are displeased with the reform, especially with the government’s decision not to increase the allowed overtime hours, set at 80 hours annually.

Same Pay for Less Work

Despite the reduced hours, salaries must remain unchanged.
This means that with the reform, employees will see an increase in their hourly wage.

Stricter Penalties for Non-Compliance

Penalties for employers breaching the new limits will intensify with easier online hour tracking for inspection purposes.
Fines range from €1,000 up to €10,000 per worker exceeding the set hours.