Overview

• Lawmakers convalidated the royal decree-law with support from the governing bloc and the PP, while Vox abstained and no votes were cast against.
• The reform raises paid leave to 19 weeks per parent by adding two flexible weeks usable until a child turns eight and one week at birth, with single-parent families eligible for up to 32 weeks.
• The new entitlements are retroactive to 2 August 2024 but cannot be requested until 1 January 2026, and they apply to private-sector employees, public workers and the self-employed.
• Social Security will cover 100% of pay and contributions during the leave, with Labour estimating €1.5 billion upfront and €1.0 billion annually thereafter.
• The measure answers EU work–life balance rules after delayed transposition drew daily fines, even as allies and business groups press for changes on scope, timing and SME impact during the bill stage.