Spain to recognize prior years of service for professional athletes

Under Royal Decree 739/2026, the Spanish Social Security system will recognize years of professional activity for athletes who worked before their specific disciplines were integrated into the Social Security General Regime. This measure aims to allow these professionals to update their retirement pensions or qualify for contributory pensions if they previously lacked the minimum required years of service.

The regulation applies to professional activity carried out in Spain between March 15, 1980, and the date each discipline joined the Social Security system. Specific cutoff dates include January 31, 1992, for cyclists; July 31, 1993, for basketball players; December 31, 1997, for handball players; and May 31, 2003, for other professional athletes. Footballers are excluded as they are governed by separate regulations.

To qualify, individuals must have resided in Spain and held a professional contract. Verification must be provided via certification from the relevant sports club or entity, or the corresponding sports federation if the organization no longer exists. The measure will take effect on December 25, 2026. Applications can be submitted to the National Institute of Social Security (INSS) either in person or electronically.