Hours of Work in Spain

The standard workweek is 40 hours. A typical working day is 8 hours, with a maximum of 9 hours per day unless otherwise agreed. Work is often split into morning and late afternoon sessions. Employers must ensure adequate rest breaks and comply with national law and collective bargaining agreements (CBAs).

In 2025, the Spanish Government proposed a progressive reduction of standard hours to 37.5 per week, without a salary reduction, though this has not yet been fully implemented.

Employees are entitled to at least one full day of rest per week, in line with statutory and collective agreement requirements.

In Spain, the standard workweek is 40 hours, with a daily cap of 9 hours. Overtime is limited to a maximum of 80 hours per year.

Overtime must be compensated either through additional pay or equivalent time off, as agreed in the employment contract or collective agreement.

Collective bargaining agreements play an important role in regulating working hours and overtime in Spain. They can provide more favourable terms for employees, including shorter working weeks, additional rest periods, or higher overtime pay rates.