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Working Hours and Overtime in Spain

What are the standard working hours in Spain?

In Spain, the standard working hours are typically established by the customer, allowing supported employees to work either a fixed schedule from Monday through Friday or follow a flexible schedule.

According to the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the maximum annual working hours are set at 1,800 hours. Any hours worked beyond this limit are considered overtime for all purposes.

Is overtime governed by law in Spain? If so, what are the specifics outlined by law?

Overtime is governed by law in Spain with specific regulations.

Key points include:

  • Employees cannot work more than 40 hours per week. Any work beyond this is considered overtime.
  • Overtime is compensated at a higher rate than normal working hours if paid monetarily or at 175% time off if provided as time off.
  • Employees are not allowed to perform more than 80 hours of overtime per year.
  • If overtime is compensated within the following 4 months with equivalent time off increased by 75%, it does not count towards the maximum of 80 hours per year.
  • If compensated monetarily, the overtime hours count towards the annual maximum of 80 hours.
  • Overtime performed on bank holidays or Sundays must be compensated at a rate of 1.75 per hour unless equivalent time off is provided.

This ensures a balance between work hours and compensation, protecting the rights of employees in Spain.

How is overtime payment calculated in Spain?

In Spain, overtime is classified as hours worked beyond the maximum annual or weekly working time stipulated by the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA), which is typically 1,800 hours per year. Compensating for overtime work can occur through two methods:

  • Employees may opt to receive 175% additional time off in lieu of monetary compensation.
  • Alternatively, if agreed between the employer and employee, financial compensation for overtime is typically set at a rate higher than the regular hourly rate.

It is important to note that overtime must be explicitly authorized in writing by the company. Any work that exceeds normal daily working hours not required or authorized by the company will not qualify as overtime.

How is the time off in lieu payment calculated in Spain?

In Spain, the time off in lieu payment is calculated based on the amount of hours worked on a public holiday or weekly rest period, with an additional increase of at least 75%.

What are the eligibility rules for time off in lieu in Spain?

In Spain, time off in lieu is a standard practice applicable when a supported employee works beyond the hours specified in their employment agreement, referred to as overtime compensation. This overtime is typically compensated with equivalent time off, which is calculated at 175% of the ordinary working hours.

How many days before the actual start date should the employment agreement be signed for payroll purposes in Spain?

Employment agreements in Spain should be signed at least 2 business days before the actual start date. Additionally, the supported employee must be enrolled in social security at least 24 hours before the start date.

Can employment agreements be backdated in Spain?

No, employment agreements cannot be backdated in Spain.

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