In Spain, self-employed workers are entitled to sick leave for temporary disability (illness or accident) as well as maternity/paternity leave, under similar conditions to salaried employees. Many clients at our accounting firm in Palma are unaware of this when they register as self-employed.

Temporary Disability Leave

A self-employed worker can request temporary disability leave if suffering from an illness or accident that prevents them from working.

• For common illnesses, having contributed for at least 180 days within the last 5 years is required.
• For work accidents or occupational diseases, no prior contribution period is required.

It’s essential to be registered with the Special Scheme for Self-Employed Workers (RETA) and up-to-date with social security payments.

Maternity/Paternity Leave

Self-employed workers are also entitled to birth and child care benefits (maternity/paternity). The leave duration is 16 weeks for both parents, though some sources mention recent extensions to 20 weeks for paternity leave.

During this period, the self-employed worker receives 100% of their regulatory base and enjoys 100% exemption from social security contributions throughout the leave.

Contribution requirements vary by age, but generally require having contributed:

• 180 days within the last 7 years or 360 days throughout one’s working life for those over 26.

Summary

As a self-employed worker, you’re entitled to sick leave and maternity/paternity benefits if you meet registration, contribution, and payment requirements. The benefits and conditions are similar to those for salaried employees.