Immigrant regularization closes with nearly one million applications
Spain's extraordinary regularization process for undocumented immigrants closed after 2.5 months, receiving nearly one million applications—double initial forecasts. The figure will be lower after removing duplicates and rejections, but it is expected to be the largest regularization since the 1980s. Organizations say the need was far greater than anticipated. The program offered a path to legal status and work rights for hundreds of thousands.
Spain’s tourist rentals drop by 60,000 in two years
Tourist rental properties in Spain have fallen by 40,000 year-on-year and 60,000 from their 2023 peak, according to the Bank of Spain. Major declines occurred in Alicante (-12,441), Madrid (-9,004), and the Balearic Islands (-5,675). Regulatory restrictions and a shift to seasonal rentals are driving the decline. The trend could free up supply for long-term renting, potentially easing the housing crisis.
Room rents eat up over 25% of salary in priciest provinces
Renting a room in Spain now costs an average of €521 a month, compared to €1,137 for a full flat—a difference of €616. In the most expensive provinces, that still consumes over 25% of the average gross salary of €2,278. Sharing a flat protects tenants from the greater vulnerability of renting alone, which often takes more than half of income. The data underscores Spain's deepening housing affordability crisis.
Europe warns Spain again: unfair dismissal pay too low
The Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers has ruled for a second time that Spain's compensation caps for unfair dismissal violate the European Social Charter. The ruling states that current limits fail to adequately compensate victims or deter employers, calling it a human rights violation. Spain could face pressure to raise severance pay, strengthening job security for all workers.
Check your seniority date on your payslip, lawyer warns
Labour lawyer Andrés Millán warns that many companies list a more recent seniority date on payslips to reduce salary supplements and severance pay. An incorrect date can significantly lower compensation in cases of unfair dismissal. Workers should verify that their seniority date reflects their actual start date to avoid financial loss.
Spain extends fuel VAT cut and electricity discounts
The government will extend anti-crisis measures including a reduced 10% VAT on petrol, diesel, and biofuels, along with continued social electricity discounts. Vulnerable households will keep a 42.5% bonus and severely vulnerable ones 57.5%. The decision comes as the previous decree was set to expire on July 1. These measures help contain living costs for all residents.
Renfe strike cancels 320 trains on June 29
A 24-hour strike by the Sindicato Ferroviario has forced Renfe to cancel 320 trains, with minimum services set at 73% for high-speed, 65% for medium-distance, and 50% for commuter lines (75% during peak hours). Passengers can change or cancel tickets at no extra cost. The disruption affects daily commutes and holiday travel across Spain.
OpenAI to open Madrid office, hiring engineers
OpenAI will open its first Madrid office in the second half of 2026, with four job openings for experienced engineers. One sales role requires over 10 years of experience and €2 million in sales. The hybrid model requires three days in the office. The move creates high-skilled tech opportunities in Spain's capital.
Mental health sick leave surges 38% in Aragón
Sick leave for common illnesses rose 38% in Aragón between 2018 and 2023, driven by post-pandemic mental health deterioration, according to a Fundación Economía y Salud report. The trend adds to rising workplace absenteeism across Spain. Experts stress the need for better mental health support for employees.
700,000 seniors live in rental housing, group warns
Around 700,000 Spaniards over 65—7% of that age group—live in rental housing, and the Platform of Seniors and Pensioners warns that rising prices and gentrification will worsen their situation. Many risk being pushed out of central neighbourhoods. The group urges better coordination between social services and housing authorities to protect vulnerable tenants.
Spain invests over €1 billion to land AI gigafactory
Spain is investing an additional €300 million to attract one of up to five European AI gigafactories, part of a €20 billion EU plan. Each centre would house up to 100,000 advanced chips and serve as an innovation hub for companies and researchers. The project aims to establish Spain as a key player in artificial intelligence.
Venezuela quakes: 17 Spanish nationals dead
The death toll of Spanish citizens from the recent Venezuela earthquakes has risen to 17, with 150 still missing and 12 located under rubble. Spain has repatriated 29 citizens on a plane that also delivered rescue teams. Consular emergency lines remain open for others affected.
