Social Security contributions to rise in 2027
All Spanish workers will see higher Social Security deductions starting in 2027. The intergenerational equality mechanism (MEI) will rise from 0.9% to 1%, with employers covering 0.83% and workers 0.17%. A new solidarity quota on salaries above the maximum base will apply: 1.38% on the portion up to 10% above the cap, and 1.5% on the portion between 10% and 50% above the cap. The MEI is set to gradually reach 1.2% by 2050. This will reduce take-home pay for workers in Spain, especially higher earners.
Fuel prices surge most in 20 years after tax rebate ends
Petrol and diesel prices in Spain have jumped dramatically in the past five weeks, the sharpest July-to-August increase in two decades. The removal of a fuel tax rebate and the return of VAT to 21% pushed petrol from €1.44 to €1.69 per litre, up 17.3%, and diesel from €1.50 to €1.79, up 19.3%. Despite the spike, prices remain below the 2022 peaks of €2.11 for petrol and €2.08 for diesel. The increases directly affect driving costs during the busy summer travel season.
Spain hits record population of 49.8 million on migration
Spain's population reached 49,801,559 on July 1, 2026, driven entirely by net migration. Foreign-born residents now total 10,291,807, representing one in five people in the country. Colombian (34,000), Venezuelan (23,300), and Moroccan (21,100) nationals made up the largest groups of newcomers. The Spanish-born population declined by 20,367 during the same quarter. The milestone underscores the demographic weight of immigration shaping Spanish society.
Ibex 35 closes at new all-time high near 20,200 points
Spain's benchmark stock index, the Ibex 35, extended its record streak to four sessions, closing at 20,180.4 points after briefly topping 20,300. The index has gained more than 16% year-to-date, buoyed by hopes of a US-Iran deal that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Cellnex, Acciona Energía, Telefónica, and Unicaja led the session's gains. The rally signals confidence in Spanish equities and can boost the value of investment portfolios and pension funds.
Spain to require gender pay gap disclosure from companies
The Labor Ministry has begun drafting a decree that will oblige companies with at least 50 employees to disclose their gender pay gaps. The text, which has been in public consultation since August 3, aims to comply with an EU directive and avoid fines. Workers will receive more information on pay criteria and salary differences between men and women. Unions CCOO and UGT say negotiations on the final rules are ongoing. The measure will increase transparency for all employees in Spain.
West Nile virus alert: 20 cases and one death in southwest Spain
Twenty people have been infected with West Nile virus in Andalusia and Extremadura so far this season, with five cases classified as severe. An 82-year-old man with pre-existing conditions died in Dos Hermanas, Seville. Researchers warn of a complicated season due to rice fields and high temperatures, which boost mosquito populations. Residents and visitors in southwest Spain should take precautions against mosquito bites.
Spain, Morocco coordinate after new Ceuta crossing calls
Spanish authorities remain on alert in Ceuta and are strengthening coordination with Morocco following fresh social media calls for a mass border crossing on August 15. However, officials believe a repeat of the July 31 incident, when 72,000 people crossed into Spain, is now very unlikely. The government says it is in permanent contact with Moroccan counterparts. The border situation in Ceuta can influence migration policy and public debate on immigration.
EU warns it's vulnerable without its own border control
European Home Affairs Commissioner Magnus Brunner said the EU will remain exposed to migration crises like the recent Ceuta events as long as it depends on the goodwill of neighboring countries. He urged stronger EU-level border protection capabilities. The warning was made on Thursday amid heightened migration pressures. This push could shape future EU immigration rules affecting Spain.
Gender violence killings in Spain rise to 35 in 2026
Two women were killed by their former partners in Asturias and Murcia within 24 hours, bringing Spain's gender violence death toll to 35 this year. Both alleged attackers had prior complaints of gender violence. Since 2003, 1,376 women have been murdered in such cases, with 26 minors left orphaned in 2026 alone. The situation highlights the ongoing severity of the crisis and the need for robust support networks.
77 arrested as police dismantle migrant and drug trafficking network
A Europol-coordinated operation led by Spain's National Police has resulted in 77 arrests and the seizure of 18 narco-boats valued at over €5 million. The network organized 64 Mediterranean crossings, bringing more than 2,000 migrants to Spain and charging up to €12,000 per person. Raids were carried out across Alicante, Almería, Cartagena, and Murcia. The crackdown targets irregular migration networks and enhances enforcement along key migration routes.
PP threatens Spain's exit from 2030 World Cup over final venue
The PP has sent a letter to the Sports Minister warning that Spain should reconsider its role in the 2030 World Cup if the final is not held on Spanish soil. The party argues Spain is bearing the economic cost of joint organization with Morocco and Portugal. The warning comes amid a long-running dispute over which country hosts the final, scheduled for July 21, 2030. While potentially impactful for future infrastructure and travel, the political spat currently has limited effect on daily life.
Judge wants Alcalá mayor tried for leaking police report on migrants
A judge has proposed putting Judith Piquet, the PP mayor of Alcalá de Henares, on trial for allegedly leaking a police document used to criminalize migrants. The leak, made in January 2024, was intended to support Isabel Díaz Ayuso after she accused migrants of sexual assaults without proof. The case highlights political manipulation of immigration issues and could influence public perceptions.
Interior deploys 33,600 officers for solar eclipse security
Spain's Interior Ministry has launched a massive security operation with 33,600 police and Civil Guard officers ahead of the total solar eclipse on August 12. Authorities expect between 1.8 and 2.9 million car journeys across the eclipse path, with 123 areas subject to access restrictions. A unified emergency command has been set up to manage the event. Anyone planning to view the eclipse should anticipate significant travel disruptions and follow official guidance.
