Culture and Holidays in Spain

Languages

Spain is a multilingual workplace environment, with Spanish and regional languages used across industries. While Spanish dominates corporate settings, regional languages are widely spoken in government and business sectors, particularly in Catalonia, the Basque Country, and Galicia. Workplaces often operate in a bilingual or multilingual manner, depending on the industry and region.​ 

In corporate sectors like IT and finance, Spanish is the primary language for communication, documentation, and client interactions, especially in multinational companies (MNCs). Meetings, presentations, and official emails are generally conducted in Spanish, though employees may use regional languages informally.​ 

In government offices and public sector organizations, Spanish and regional languages are commonly used for internal communication and documentation. Spain recognizes several co-official languages, with autonomous communities prioritizing their regional languages—such as Catalan in Catalonia, Basque in the Basque Country, and Galician in Galicia.​ 

The manufacturing and retail sectors rely on local languages for daily operations, especially in labor-intensive industries. Factories, warehouses, and construction sites primarily use Spanish or regional languages, while management-level communication may be in Spanish.​ 

In customer service, language use depends on clientele. Spanish is common for domestic and international customer support, while many companies also hire speakers of Catalan, Basque, Galician, and other regional languages to cater to regional customers.

Workplace norms and professional etiquette

Spanish workplace culture values relationship-building, open communication, and adaptability. While organizational hierarchies exist, collaboration and interpersonal trust play a key role in business practices. 

Workplace hierarchy and authority

Decision-making structures may be centralized, but input from team members is often encouraged. Titles are respected, but accessibility and informal exchanges with management are common.

Email and phone etiquette

Business emails often begin with polite greetings and may include a brief personal note. Clarity and courtesy are important. Phone conversations may involve small talk before transitioning to business topics.

Meeting etiquette and punctuality

Punctuality is appreciated, though meetings may begin slightly late. Agendas can be flexible, allowing for open dialogue. Building rapport and consensus during discussions is valued over rushed decision-making. 

Professional dress code

In corporate environments, attire tends to be business formal—such as tailored suits or dresses. In creative or tech sectors, business casual is widely accepted. Overall, style and personal presentation are important in Spanish workplaces.

National holidays

Employees are entitled to the following paid public holidays:      

• New Year’s Day 
• Good Friday 
• International Workers’ Day 
• Feast of the Assumption 
• Spanish National Day 
• All Saints’ Day 
• Spanish Constitution Day 
• Christmas Day

The national calendar includes 14 public holidays per year, of which eight are set by the national government, while four are designated by each autonomous community, and two by local municipalities. When a public holiday falls on a weekend, regional or local authorities may allow it to be moved to a weekday. Employees are not entitled to substitute days off unless specified in the applicable collective agreement or employer policy.