Here’s the translation into American English:
—
On July 29, 2025, the Council of Ministers approved Royal Decree-Law 9/2025, which represents a crucial change in parental leave legislation in Spain. This new regulation extends the period of leave for childbirth and child care from 16 to 19 weeks for each parent. In the case of single-parent families, the leave is increased to 32 weeks, aiming to ensure that all children receive the necessary care and attention.
The reform, which will retroactively take effect from August 2, 2024, aligns with the guidelines of Directive (EU) 2019/1158, focusing on the reconciliation of work and personal life. The regulation also addresses the violations pointed out by the European Commission to Spain for failing to fully implement these regulations within the stipulated deadlines.
Among the main innovations of RDL 9/2025, it is highlighted that of the 19 weeks of leave, 6 are mandatory and must be taken continuously and full-time following the birth or adoption. The remaining 11 weeks are flexible, allowing their distribution until the child turns one year old. For single parents, an additional 4 weeks are included for flexible care of children up to 8 years old, applicable only to births or adoptions occurring after August 2, 2025.
Furthermore, the legislation ensures that compensation during the leave will be fully covered by Social Security, while maintaining the right to contributions by the company, although the latter will not make salary payments during the absence.
The goal of this reform is not only to promote family reconciliation but also to foster equality of opportunities in the workplace, mitigating the historical penalties associated with child care. These measures are expected to have a positive impact on the health and well-being of families, providing more rest time and creating a more balanced family environment.
Puigverd Assessors has expressed their willingness to assist both workers and businesses in managing this new regulation. They offer support in the implementation of these measures according to each individual’s employment situation and strategies for distributing flexible weeks, as well as assistance to companies in planning necessary substitutes and adapting to the new deadlines.
With this reform, Spain aligns itself with other European countries regarding parental leave, establishing a legal framework that prioritizes co-responsibility and effective equality between fathers and mothers, thus facilitating both professional and family development.
—
Let me know if you need any further assistance!
Source: MiMub in Spanish
