Going to vote in Madrid will allow up to four hours of paid leave

The resolution published this week in the Boletín Oficial of the Comunidad de Madrid sets out the rules for work leave during the general elections on 29 November 2026. The amount of leave depends on how many hours of the workday overlap with the opening hours of the polling stations.

If the overlap is at least two hours but less than four, employees are entitled to two paid hours off. If the overlap is four hours or more but less than six, they are entitled to three hours; if it is six hours or more, the leave increases to four hours. If there is no overlap or it is less than two hours, no paid leave is granted.

Those working far from their usual home on that day, or in conditions that make voting difficult, may substitute this leave for another of the same nature. They may use it to personally request a certificate of registration in the Census and to send their vote by post. For part-time contracts, the duration of leave will be reduced in proportion to the working hours compared to a full-time schedule at the same company.

The company will decide when the leave is taken, taking into account the organisation of work.

Presidents and members of polling stations, election supervisors, and party representatives are entitled to paid leave for the entire election day if it does not coincide with their weekly rest day. Presidents, members, and supervisors are also entitled to five hours off on the following day; for party representatives, the leave is limited to the day of voting.

If any of these workers are scheduled for a night shift on the eve of the election, the company must change their shift upon request so they can rest that night. These reductions in working hours will not result in a reduction of salary: proof of voting or accreditation from the polling station will serve as justification.