How Public Holidays Work in Spain
Public holidays in Spain are defined by the Estatuto de los Trabajadores. The country observes 14 official holidays per year, including both national celebrations and regional autonomous community holidays.
2025 Holiday Calendar
Each autonomous community designates 2 additional regional holidays. Catalonia, Basque Country, and Galicia have distinct cultural celebrations. Some cities add local patron saint days.
Spain Holidays
How Public Holidays Work in Spain
Public holidays in Spain are defined by the Estatuto de los Trabajadores. The country observes 14 official holidays per year, including both national celebrations and regional autonomous community holidays.
14 holidays officially recognized, including 12 national holidays plus 2 regional holidays determined by each autonomous community. All employees are entitled to these paid days off.
Each autonomous community designates 2 additional regional holidays. Catalonia, Basque Country, and Galicia have distinct cultural celebrations. Some cities add local patron saint days.
If a fixed-date holiday falls on a weekend, the policy varies by autonomous community and employer agreement. Some regions grant a substitute day while others do not.
Spain
Hispanic Day
Spain's National Day commemorating Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas. Celebrates Spanish culture and heritage with military parades.
Constitution Day
Celebrates the approval of the Spanish Constitution in 1978. Marks the transition to democracy and is observed as a national holiday.
Labour Day
International Workers' Day. A paid public holiday for all employees. Widely celebrated with labor union demonstrations and events.
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Impact on Payroll & Leave
Public holidays in Spain involve mandatory paid time off with specific rules for premium pay when work is required.
Learn more about SpainHoliday work requires mutual agreement and premium compensation or substitute rest day.
Strict enforcement of daily and weekly rest periods with penalties for non-compliance.
22 working days annual leave plus 14 public holidays impact payroll planning.
Autonomous community variations require region-specific payroll configuration.
Are employees compensated if a public holiday falls on a weekend?
It depends on the autonomous community and employer policy. Some regions grant a substitute weekday off while others do not provide compensation.
What happens if an employee falls ill while on annual leave?
If the employee provides a medical certificate, sick days during annual leave are converted to sick leave, and annual leave days are preserved for future use.
Are public holidays paid time off?
Yes, all 14 public holidays are mandatory paid days off for employees. If an employee works on a holiday with mutual agreement, they receive either substitute rest or premium pay.
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Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official government sources and legal counsel for compliance matters.