Spain has recorded a historic high in overall Social Security affiliation, with the number of contributors reaching new all‑time peaks in mid‑2025. In July 2025, total affiliation reached around 21.86 million contributors, the highest figure on record in the series available. These figures also reflect significant growth in the number of young workers under 30 contributing to the system, specifically by 25%.
Impressive Figures
This 25% increase suggests not only more young people entering work but also greater job stability and better social protection, such as contributions towards future pensions and access to healthcare. The growth has benefited both young men and women, with particularly strong gains among women in education, healthcare, and professional services. Regionally, the largest increases have been recorded in dynamic areas such as Madrid, Catalonia, and the Balearic Islands, while inland and rural regions continue to face challenges in attracting and retaining young workers.
Alongside rising numbers, the nature of youth employment is improving. Permanent contracts have become more common, and many young workers are now employed in higher-value sectors such as digital services, engineering, and renewable energy. These developments not only provide greater income stability but also strengthen long-term social protection through sustained contributions to the Social Security system.
Why Affiliation is Growing
Several factors explain this sustained rise in youth affiliation:
- Labour reform and increased job stability, with more permanent contracts.
- Growth in emerging and high‑value sectors, such as digital and professional services.
- Better alignment between education, vocational training and labour market needs.
These elements have helped younger workers join the formal workforce and be included in the Social Security system.
Impact on the Future
Each young contributor not only strengthens the sustainability of Spain’s pension system, which relies on active contributors to fund current and future benefits, but also reflects a labour market that is gradually becoming more dynamic and resilient.
While challenges remain, youth unemployment is still relatively high among low-skilled workers, and high housing costs can limit economic independence, the continued rise in young workers joining the Social Security system shows that some progress is being made.
The record level of affiliation seen in July 2025, with around 21.86 million contributors, highlights this meaningful shift. More young people are entering the workforce, contributing to social protection, and helping to lay the foundation for a stronger, more stable economic future in Spain.
