The Spanish government has approved a draft law to reduce the maximum duration of the ordinary working day to 37.5 hours per week annually. This reform, the first legal reduction in working hours since 1983, will directly impact the organisation of work time within companies and require an adaptation to the new regulatory requirements.
Reduction of Working Hours and Its Impact on Companies
The new legislation gradually reduces working hours without affecting employees’ salaries. This means reorganizing human and operational resources for companies to maintain productivity and market competitiveness.
Key Aspects of Business Adaptation
Recording Working Hours
Companies must implement a reliable and accessible digital system to ensure the authenticity and traceability of work hours. Adopting suitable technological solutions will be essential to comply with this requirement.
Right to Disconnect
Regulations prohibiting companies from contacting employees outside of working hours are reinforced, helping to avoid potential penalties.
Collective Agreements
Companies with collective agreements exceeding the new maximum working hours must comply by December 31, 2025. They must review their current contracts and anticipate any necessary adjustments.
Sanctions for Non-Compliance
Penalties for violations have been increased, with fines ranging from €1,000 to €10,000 per affected employee. Implementing effective internal controls is crucial to avoid infractions.
Additionally, companies should consider this an opportunity to innovate in their work models by incorporating flexibility and remote work strategies. These adjustments will facilitate compliance with the new law, enhance employees’ quality of life, and ensure long-term business sustainability.
Most Affected Sectors and Adjustment Strategies
Sectors with high labour demands, such as hospitality, retail, agriculture, and services, will be the most impacted by the working hours reduction. To mitigate potential negative effects, companies may consider:
- Restructuring shifts and workforce distribution to optimise work time.
- Implementing digital tools to enhance operational efficiency.
- Strengthening training and automating processes to maintain productivity.
The government has announced the creation of a Social Dialogue Roundtable to assess the impact of this measure and provide support to businesses during the adaptation process.
Conclusion
The reduction of working hours in Spain in 2025 presents both a challenge and an opportunity for companies. Proper planning and proactive organisational changes will be key to complying with the regulations while maintaining competitiveness.
Virginia Ramírez Chamizo
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