How many days off you are entitled to for a move
At some point in our lives, we all find ourselves going through a move. But because it happens so rarely, it is perfectly normal to have many questions about nearly every aspect of the process. How many days off am I entitled to for a move at work? Will they be deducted from my salary? How do I request moving leave? What requirements must I meet? These are just a few of the many questions that tend to arise when facing a move.
The best way to avoid the typical inconveniences and hassles of a move is to hire the services of professional, specialist removal companies. In any case, it is essential that you know your employment rights in this regard.
Requirements for requesting moving leave for a removal
In principle, the only essential requirement is that the change of residence be permanent. If you are moving for a fixed period of time, however long, you would not be able to apply for moving leave. In that case, if you need a working day set aside for the move, you must request it from your annual leave allowance.
To prove a permanent change of residence, it is sufficient to provide your employer with a utility bill registered at the new address. Other documents that can prove the move is genuine include a certificate of registration at the new address, or the rental or purchase contract for your new home.
As for how much notice you must give your employer, the law does not specify a fixed period. In practice, the sensible and customary approach is to give as much notice as possible so that the company can organise and plan its operations accordingly.
Days off you are entitled to for a move
Article 37 of the Workers' Statute provides for one day off per move per year. However, collective agreements may extend this to a maximum of two days per move. If you need more days to complete the move than your collective agreement allows, you must take them from your holiday entitlement. The common approach in such cases is to request them alongside a weekend so that you can have more consecutive days off to complete your move successfully.
Are moving leave days paid?
The moving days you are entitled to must in all cases be paid. Your employer cannot make any deductions from your salary for taking this leave, as it is a right enshrined in the Workers' Statute. That document also states explicitly that this leave is paid if you are a salaried employee.
Moving is a process we all go through at some point in our lives. We need to plan ahead and request our moving days as early as possible. It is also highly advisable to hire the services of professionals such as Horizont Atlantic to avoid potential problems and ensure your move is a success — especially if it involves a move from mainland Spain to the Canary Islands, the other way around, or between islands.
Frequently asked questions about moving leave days
How many days off am I legally entitled to for a move?
The Workers' Statute grants 1 paid working day of leave for a change of permanent residence (article 37.3.c). This is the legal minimum. Some collective agreements extend this to 2–3 days. Check the agreement that applies to you: there may be significant improvements depending on your sector and employer.
Do I need to give my employer advance notice?
Yes, with reasonable notice (minimum 24–48 hours, ideally 1–2 weeks). Provide supporting documentation proving the change of address (new rental contract, deed of purchase, certificate of registration). Your employer CANNOT refuse the leave without justified cause (it is a legal right), but they may request supporting documentation.
What if the move is between regions or to the Canary Islands?
The statutory entitlement remains 1 paid day, but in practice employers tend to be flexible for long-distance moves (adding holiday or unpaid days). If you are relocating for work reasons (change of workplace), you are entitled to additional compensation under the applicable collective agreement. More details: relocation for work, compensation and deductible expenses.
Do civil servants get more days?
Yes: the Basic Statute of Public Employees grants 2 days of leave for a change of residence (4 days if it is to another province). Some regional administrations (the Canary Islands, Catalonia, Madrid) extend this further under specific agreements. Consult your works council or HR department.
What about the self-employed? How do I manage "leave" for a move?
As a self-employed person you are your own boss, so the "decision" is entirely yours. What matters is: informing clients in advance (1–2 weeks) of the days you will be unavailable, scheduling deliverables so they do not clash with the move, and considering hiring a temporary assistant or administrative support to handle urgent matters. More for the self-employed: moving as a sole trader or small office.
