How Many People Are Unemployed in Spain?

As of September 2024, the total number of unemployed people in Spain is 2,575,285. 

The Spanish government has introduced new changes to unemployment benefits, making it easier for more people to get help and providing different levels of benefit depending on how long they have been unemployed.

• First 6 months: 95% of the IPREM - 570 euros per month.
• Next 6 months: 90% of the IPREM - 540 euros per month.
• Remaining period: 80% of the IPREM - 480 euros per month.

These amounts represent the minimum level of unemployment benefit in Spain as of November 2024, with a gradual reduction of financial support over time to encourage beneficiaries to seek employment while still providing support.

• No waiting month: The usual one-month waiting period for benefits has been removed to avoid gaps in coverage.

• New access for more groups: People under 45 with no family responsibilities.

• Seasonal agricultural workers, with a reduction to 10 working days required to qualify.

• New benefit for victims of gender-based violence: Women over 16 who are victims can access a special allowance at the same level as the regular unemployment benefit.

• Change in income calculation: The new rule now takes into account family responsibilities. A person will not be disqualified if their income exceeds 75% of the SMI.

• Part-time workers: They now have the same rights as full-time workers, and the previous deductions for part-time employment have been abolished.

• Employment support allowance: Beneficiaries can receive an Employment Support Complement for up to 180 days to encourage them to return to work.

• Without children: 1,225 euros per month.
• With 1 child: 1,400 euros per month.
• With 2 or more children: 1,575 euros per month.

These amounts outline the new structure of unemployment benefits in Spain, which aims to provide a comprehensive and flexible support system for people who are out of work.

• In August 2024, Spain invested 1,999.3 million euros in unemployment benefits.
• The coverage rate of the unemployment protection system in that month was 76.48%, the highest since 2010.

The specific amount an individual receives depends on various factors, such as their previous salary and the period they have contributed to the social security system.

In the first quarter of 2024, the unemployment rate in Spain was 12.29%, according to the Encuesta de Población Activa (EPA) published on 26 April 2024. This rate reflects a slight increase of 0.49% compared to the previous quarter.

In September 2024, the unemployment rate showed an annual variation decrease of 5.41%.