On the 31st of July 2025 the amendment of articles 48 of the Workers' Statute and 178, 181 and 182 of the General Social Security Law was published by means of the Royal Decree 9/2015 which extends maternity and paternity leave.
The period will be increased by 3 weeks, with the distribution of weeks being established as follows:
Distribution of leave for two-parent families:
- 6 mandatory weeks: These weeks must be taken together, one week after the other, right after the birth or adoption.
- 11 weeks of discretionary leave: These weeks can be taken in a more flexible way, at any time within the first 12 months of the baby's life.
- 2 additional weeks: These weeks are intended for the care of the child, and can be used at any time until the child reaches the age of 8.
Extended leave for single-parent families:
The structure is similar, but the number of weeks available is extended.
- 6 mandatory weeks
- 22 weeks of discretionary leave: These weeks can be taken flexibly, at any time within the first 12 months of the baby's life.
- 4 additional weeks: These weeks are intended for the care of the child, and can be used at any time until the child reaches the age of 8.
Validity, retroactivity and application for the benefit:
Although the law entered into force in July 2025, the economic benefit as well as the enjoyment of this new extension may be requested as of the 1st of January 2026 and has retroactive application for families with children born on or after the 2nd of August 2024.
If you have any queries regarding the enjoyment or application for this leave, please don't hesitate to contact our team specialised in Social Security.
