Lockdown began on March 15 and stretched for 99 days, with a second phase reopening later in the year. By October 25, Spain entered a new state of alert to address a second wave, while ongoing vigilance awaited a vaccine.
Spain faced significant health challenges since the coronavirus was declared a global crisis in March. The country underwent two formal states of alert to manage the disease: the first from March 15 to June 21, and another that started on October 25 to confront a renewed surge. Authorities anticipated a future vaccine while continuing efforts to slow transmission.
What is the length of quarantine in the first phase?
first wave
The state of alarm and the related confinement rules began on March 15. Some people started staying home even earlier, but officially the population remained largely indoors for 99 days, allowed to engage only in permitted activities, until the transition to the new normal on June 21.
second wave
On October 25 the second state of alert took effect to counter the second wave. During this period, autonomous communities set local restrictions, including curfews and closures of shops and public spaces. This phase extended beyond six months and continued until May 9, totaling 196 days.
What does the alarm status signify?
The alarm status is defined in Article 116 of the Spanish Constitution and represents the mildest form of national emergency, with higher levels such as a more severe state of emergency or martial law available if needed.
How long does the alarm last?
The alarm condition is set for a minimum period, with the initial decree issued on March 15 and extended multiple times after approval by the legislature. The extension process continued until June 21, when the first phase concluded. The second state of alert began on October 25 and was extended through May 9.
What are the main components of the measures?
Curfew application
The government approved nationwide curfew planning, recognizing that the Canary Islands were excluded from the blanket rule. In practice, curfew hours typically ranged from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m., but autonomous communities had the authority to adjust the window. Some regions moved the start or end times, such as shifting to 10 p.m. or extending to 7 a.m.
EXCEPTIONS: During curfew hours, people may enter public spaces only to perform specific tasks, including: a) purchasing medicines and essential products; b) accessing health centers, services, and institutions; c) visiting veterinary centers for urgent reasons; d) fulfilling work, professional, or legal obligations; e) returning home after necessary activities; f) caring for the elderly, minors, dependents, or vulnerable individuals; g) force majeure or emergency needs; h) other accredited urgent activities; i) refueling at gas stations if required for the stated tasks.
The prime minister noted that meetings should be limited to six individuals unless cohabiting, urging outings to be strictly necessary.
Movement between communities and municipalities
Authorities clarified that autonomous communities may restrict entry and exit from their territories, with exceptions for health needs or work obligations. The entry or exit of people is restricted across autonomous communities and autonomous cities, with justified movements allowed for specific reasons including health care, employment, education, and essential family or care duties. Some restricted regions may permit certain movements for urgent administrative tasks, examinations, or emergencies. Transit through territory without restrictions remains unaffected.
In addition, the competent regional authority may impose further limits on entry and exit within geographically smaller areas inside an autonomous community, with the same range of exemptions as described above. Transit through these areas is not subject to travel restrictions.
Source: Goal [Attribution note: Goal]