Paternity Leave in Spain
Spain gives each father an individual, non-transferable right to 19 paid weeks of birth and childcare leave. Plan your dates and see how the weeks can be split.
Last updated: 13 November 2026
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Spain paternity leave at a glance
Each father has an individual, non-transferable right to 19 paid weeks, including 6 compulsory weeks immediately after the birth.
- Leave length
- 19 weeks: 6 compulsory weeks, 11 flexible weeks, and 2 weeks that can be used until the child turns 8.
- When to take it
- 6 continuous full-time weeks immediately after the birth; 11 weeks in weekly blocks before the child's first birthday; 2 more weeks before age 8.
- Pay
- Social Security pays 100% of your regulatory contribution base. This is not always the same as your full actual salary.
- Who qualifies
- You must be registered with Social Security. Minimum contributions: none under 21; ages 21–25 need 90 days in the last 7 years or 180 days in total; 26+ need 180 days in the last 7 years or 360 days in total.
- Self-employed fathers
- Self-employed fathers can get the benefit if they meet the insurance and contribution conditions.
Parental leave on top of paternity leave
The 2 weeks usable until age 8 are part of the 19 weeks, not extra on top.
Good to know
- The 19-week entitlement took effect on 31 July 2025.
- The calculator counts all 19 weeks in one block; only the first 6 weeks must be taken straight after the birth.
Legal entitlement vs employer benefits
The rules above are the legal minimum in Spain. Many employers offer extra paid days or top up statutory pay. Add any employer leave in the calculator above to see your real return-to-work date, and confirm the details with your HR team. To compare pay over the weeks you take off, try the paternity pay calculator.
Other European guides
Official sources
Frequently asked questions
Editorial note: we summarise official government guidance and link to it. Laws change — always confirm your entitlement with your employer or the relevant authority. This page is not legal advice.