Spain is moving toward a new Easter period free from covid restrictions, with companies increasingly empowered to plan confidently. Recent data shows March ending with a remarkable surge in job creation based on the historical series. Social Security and Labor ministries report a gain of 206,410 members, bringing overall employment to around 20.37 million people. This marks an unprecedented level of hiring for March and a simultaneous peak in people employed across the country, according to the latest updates from the ministries.
Unemployment fell by 48,755 individuals, dropping the total to 2.86 million unemployed nationwide. This figure represents the lowest unemployment level since before the 2008 financial and real estate crisis, a milestone that stands in contrast to the fact that Spain still holds one of the highest unemployment rates globally within the European Union context.
While protection against joblessness has strengthened, unemployment remains a challenge. About seven out of ten job seekers continue to receive some form of support or subsidy, reflecting the widest coverage in the past twelve years.
Hospitality sector slows down in hiring pace
The hotel industry emerged as the leading driver of hiring in March, posting a net gain of 71,808 positions. Industry leaders note a continuing demand for skilled workers, even as some firms highlight shortages in qualified talent. The new labor reform was crafted to soften seasonal shifts by promoting more stable contract patterns, so that peaks do not overwhelm businesses and slower periods do not leave workers idle.
In spite of the seasonal uplift expected during Holy Week, the broader picture from recent months shows a balanced mix of employment across traditional sectors and those experiencing rapid growth with improved working conditions. One in four post-pandemic job openings are concentrated in high-tech and knowledge-intensive fields, such as information technology, telecommunications, and scientific and technical activities, as highlighted by Social Security data.