Spain expands unemployment subsidy for over‑52s and clarifies vacation rules

Spain's public employment service (SEPE) confirmed that the unemployment subsidy for people over 52 provides a minimum monthly income and counts as pension contributions at 125 % of the minimum earnings base – €1,780.50 in 2026. The benefit continues without limit until the holder reaches the statutory retirement age (65 years for those with 38 years + 3 months of contributions, 66 years 10 months for others), after which the subsidy ends and the regular pension begins.

Beneficiaries may travel while receiving the subsidy, but must meet strict conditions. Domestic trips of up to 15 days are allowed if the office is notified in advance and the claimant remains reachable. Longer domestic absences require prior SEPE authorization. For trips abroad, a single stay of up to 15 days per year is permitted with notification; stays of 15‑90 days suspend the benefit, and absences beyond 90 days terminate the entitlement unless linked to job‑search, study, or international cooperation programs.