Laws
1362 newsReaders can follow how national headlines become local stories across Spanish cities, regions, institutions and communities.
Mobile operators to block unregistered business SMS in Spain
From September 2026, Spanish mobile operators will block SMS, MMS and RCS messages from businesses that use unregistered brand names as sender. The move aims to curb fraud and protect consumers, with no action required from the public.
Autism Association Fined After Volunteers Labeled as Workers
A charity in Extremadura has paid a reduced fine after authorities ruled its volunteers were actually workers. The case exposes the legal risks for non-profits relying on unpaid help and raises questions about how Spanish law treats volunteer labor.
Summer road deaths in Spain rise as authorities push for stricter alcohol limits
Spain recorded 240 road deaths this summer, up from last year. Most fatalities occurred on single-lane roads. The government now seeks to lower legal alcohol limits for drivers after a series of deadly crashes and policy setbacks.
Spain enforces cognitive accessibility for all public services
A new government decree will require every public service in Spain to adapt information and procedures for cognitive accessibility. From hospitals to transport, the law mandates clear language, pictograms, and support tools—without extra cost or delay for users.
Spanish workers entitled to one month’s pay when sole proprietor retires and closes business
When a sole proprietor retires and shuts down their business for good, Spanish law guarantees employees a month’s salary as compensation. This right only applies if the business truly ends, not just when ownership changes.
Sardinillas Face Strict New Rules in Spain from 2026
From January 2026, Spanish canned fish labels will be overhauled. The term 'sardinilla' will be reserved for sardines that meet exact length, weight, and origin standards. Producers must adapt packaging and terminology or risk losing the iconic name.
Why Social Security Does Not Automatically Raise Disability to 75 Percent at 55
Turning 55 does not guarantee a higher disability pension in Spain. The 20 percent increase depends on strict conditions, including not working and facing real barriers to new employment. Here is what actually determines who receives the higher payment.
Spain rewrites traffic light rules to protect pedestrians
Starting in October, Spanish drivers will face tougher penalties as the DGT removes the ambiguous amber phase at pedestrian crossings. The new law requires a red light for vehicles whenever pedestrians have green, ending decades of risky overlap.
Spain’s Motorhome Crackdown: New ITV Deadlines and €500 Fines Hit Owners
Motorhome owners in Spain now face stricter ITV inspection schedules and fines up to €500 for non-compliance. The DGT’s new measures respond to a 185% surge in caravans since 2015, reshaping travel and parking rules nationwide.
Spain Moves to Cap Hospital Shifts and Rein in Staff Overload
Spain’s government is pushing a landmark health reform to limit hospital shifts to 17 hours and curb chronic overwork. The draft law, now before parliament, could reshape working life for thousands of public health professionals if approved.
Spain’s new traffic rules: amber lights, motorbike arcenes, and a shift in road priorities
From October 1, 2026, Spain will enforce sweeping traffic reforms. Motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians will see new protections, while drivers face stricter rules at crossings and in congested traffic. Here’s what changes—and why it matters.
Spain Cracks Down on Dangerous Roundabout Driving with Steep Fines
Nearly 10% of injury crashes in Spain happen at roundabouts, yet confusion and risky maneuvers persist. The DGT is cracking down with steep fines and point deductions for violations, hoping to force a culture shift behind the wheel.
Andalusia Makes School Transfer the Main Sanction for Bullying Cases
Andalusia has approved a decree making school transfer the main penalty for bullying. The measure aims to better protect victims and clarify procedures for handling such cases. The change follows high-profile failures in anti-bullying protocols.
Valencian Forest Law to Pay Landowners for Environmental Protection
The Generalitat will introduce a law to compensate those who maintain and protect forests. The move follows major wildfire damage in La Vall d’Uixó. Owners will receive payments for conservation and fire prevention.
Why Traffic Signs in Spain Come in Different Sizes
The size of a traffic sign in Spain is not just a matter of design. Regulations require three distinct sizes, each chosen for safety and visibility depending on the speed limit and type of road. Here’s how the system works—and why it matters.
Spain’s New V27 Signal Will Only Work in Modern Cars
The DGT’s V27 signal is set to transform road safety in Spain, but only drivers with newer, connected vehicles will benefit immediately. Older cars will be left out until the fleet is renewed.
Spain Delays Ban on Unapproved Credit Card Limit Increases
Spanish banks can still raise credit card limits without explicit customer consent, as the government’s proposed law remains in draft form. The EU’s November 2026 deadline looms, but for now, unilateral credit increases are not yet prohibited.
Urban Traffic Lights in Spain to Change Under New Road Rules
From October, Spain’s urban traffic lights will operate under new rules. The DGT aims to reduce risks for pedestrians and cyclists. The update ends a long-standing ambiguity at crossings.
Spain to Launch Deposit System for Single-Use Drink Containers in November
From November, Spain will require a deposit on single-use drink containers. Consumers will pay at purchase and get the money back when returning the empty packaging. The move aims to boost recycling rates.
Spain to Overhaul Traffic Rules: New Safety Laws from October 2026
Spain’s DGT will introduce major traffic law reforms from October 2026, focusing on protecting pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. The new rules aim to reduce accidents at crossings and clarify road priorities.
Taking a Holiday While on Sick Leave Can Lead to Dismissal in Spain
Spanish law does not ban travel or leisure activities during sick leave, but certain actions can justify dismissal without compensation. Courts weigh each case against medical advice and the impact on recovery, making the outcome far from automatic.
No 10-Cent Charge Yet: Spain Delays Deposit on Bottles and Cans
Spanish bars and supermarkets are not required to charge a 10-cent deposit on bottles or cans yet. The EU’s new packaging regulation takes effect in August 2026, but Spain’s deposit system will only launch after further national steps. Here’s what actually changes—and when.
EU Sets New Limits on Tethering Dogs and Cats, Spain Already Ahead
A new EU regulation will restrict how long dogs and cats can be tethered in breeding, sales, and shelter facilities, with Spain already enforcing even tougher national rules. The changes mark a significant shift in animal welfare standards across Europe.
EU to Require User-Replaceable Smartphone Batteries by 2027
From February 2027, EU law will require that most portable device batteries can be replaced by users without special tools. Smartphones face even stricter standards, including durability and repairability, with the aim of extending device lifespans and reducing electronic waste.
Hotels in Spain Must Display This Sign If They Ban Pets
Travelers with dogs in Spain should look for a specific sign at hotel entrances. A recent law lets hotels choose whether to accept pets, but obliges them to visibly warn guests if animals are not allowed. Here’s what you need to know before booking.
Father of Francesc Augé Ends Legal Fight Against Son’s Euthanasia
After years of legal dispute, the father of Francesc Augé has withdrawn his opposition to his son’s euthanasia. This decision removes the main barrier to the procedure, which had been stalled by court battles in Catalonia.
Mercadona Holds Off on 10-Cent Deposit Scheme in Spain
Mercadona has confirmed it will not introduce the 10-cent deposit for beverage containers in Spain until further notice. Despite new EU rules, the supermarket giant says no official start date or system details have been set for Spanish stores.
Spain Sets €40,000 Fines for Lobbying Violations Under New Decree
Spain enforces new rules for lobbying groups, introducing fines up to €40,000 and registration bans. The decree targets transparency and accountability in dealings with public officials. Key changes affect both lobbies and former high-ranking officials.
Spain Enacts Mandatory Lobby Register by Decree Amid Parliamentary Deadlock
The Spanish government has approved a decree to create a mandatory public register for lobbying groups. The move comes after months of stalled negotiations in Congress. The new measure aims to increase transparency in state administration.
Flexible Retirement Rules Change: More Options for Pensioners in Spain
Spain has overhauled its flexible retirement system. Pensioners can now work part-time or as self-employed while receiving a portion of their pension. The new rules expand eligibility and introduce financial incentives.
SEPE Expands ID Options, But Online Unemployment Claims Still Require Cl@ve or Certificate
Spain’s SEPE now recognizes temporary codes and contrast data for identification, but applying for unemployment benefits online still demands a digital certificate, DNIe, or Cl@ve. The change broadens access for some services, yet key procedures remain restricted.
EU Considers Electronic Speed Limits for Motorcycles
The European Union is weighing whether to require motorcycles to automatically limit acceleration, a move that could reshape road safety rules. While cars and trucks already use ISA technology, motorcycles remain exempt, and no official timeline has been set for new regulations.
SEPE Opens Access to €570 Unemployment Subsidy with Just 90 Days Worked
Workers in Spain who lose their jobs with as little as 90 days of contributions can now apply for a €570 monthly subsidy. The measure targets those without enough work history for standard unemployment benefits, but strict income and family criteria still apply.
UK Proposes One-Hour Training to Let Automatic Drivers Use Manual Cars
The RAC suggests that drivers with automatic-only licences could switch to manual cars after just one hour of practical training. The proposal aims to simplify the process and reflect the changing car market in the UK.
SEPE Can Refuse Unemployment Aid If Severance Exceeds Legal Limit
Receiving a severance package above the legal minimum can jeopardize eligibility for unemployment subsidies in Spain. SEPE counts any excess as income, even if it is not taxable. The 2026 income threshold for aid is set at €915.75 per month.
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