At a glance

• New protected sick leave categories have been introduced for certain menopause-related conditions and for women unable to work due to injuries resulting from gender-based violence.
• A new reduction in social security contributions also applies to employees aged 62 and over who are on sick leave.
• Enhanced protections have been introduced for employees caring for a child or other dependant with cancer or another serious illness, including broader eligibility, extended support in certain circumstances, and corresponding changes to working time reduction rights.
• A wider package of social security reforms strengthens support in areas including catastrophic events, survivor benefits, birth and childcare, terrorism-related pensions and compensation, and child maintenance.

On 21 October 2026, Spain published Royal Decree-law 31/2026, which introduces a broad package of reforms aimed at strengthening social security protections and expanding support for vulnerable individuals and families. Several of the changes are likely to be particularly relevant for employers and employees.

Among the most significant measures is the introduction of two new forms of protected temporary incapacity. The first applies to a specifically recognised condition linked to menopause that results in an employee being unable to work, while the second covers women whose injuries resulting from gender-based violence prevent them from working. In both cases, no minimum contribution period is...

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