In Spain, the reconciliation of work and family life is seen as a private, not societal problem. Consequently, the presence of work-family policies in Spain is limited to say the very least. Spain's current work-family policies can be placed into two categories: parental leave policy and childcare policy. Compared to other countries in the European Union, Spain's parental leave policies are generous. In contrast, Spain lags behind in childcare policy, resulting in parents having to find private solutions for childcare.
Parental Leave Policies
- 16 weeks for maternity leave with 100% of original wages replaced
- 10 weeks of the maternity leave, if unused, may be transferred to father
- 2 additional weeks maternity leave per child in multiple births
- 2 days paternity leave with 100% of original wages replaced
- Additional unpaid parental leave available until the child turns 3 years old
Table of Comparative Parental Leave Policies
| Country | Length of Leave | % of Wages Replaced |
| Spain | 16 weeks | 100% |
| France | 16-26 weeks | 100% |
| Germany | 14 weeks | 100% |
| Portugal | 98 days | 100% |
| United States | 12 weeks | 0% |
Sources: Apesma Professional Women's Network
Childcare Policies
Policies regarding childcare in Spain are crafted and enacted by state/local governments. While the policies regarding children between the ages of 3 and 6 provide parents with childcare options, after the age of 6, children no longer qualify for government subsidized childcare, and parents must find their own private solutions for childcare.
- Under 3 years of age - parents pay income-related fees, up to 20 percent of costs and there is a modest tax benefit for those with sufficient income above the tax threshold
- Ages 3-6 years of age - childcare programs are universal and free however, they are hard to access because of long waitlists
- Ages 6 and up - no longer eligible for government subsidized childcare-parents must find private solutions to childcare
