Spain moves to end the paperwork nightmare that has frustrated residents for years
Filling in a Spanish government form has never been simple, even for people fluent in the language, and the country’s […]
Spain is set to simplify bureaucratic procedures under new government rules, aiming to make government forms easier for residents to understand. The Council of Ministers approved the decree on September 1, implementing plain language, pictograms, and clearer signs for tax forms, hospitals, transport hubs, and government websites.
This regulation is the first of its kind in Spain, covering essential public services comprehensively, rather than addressing each sector individually. The Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and the 2030 Agenda, led by Pablo Bustinduy, drafted the law. Upon its implementation, entities involved in public administration, healthcare, transport, justice, employment, telecommunications, elections, and consumer services will be required to provide information in accessible formats, such as plain language, easy-read versions, and pictograms.
A new entity, the Centro Español de Accesibilidad Cognitiva (CEACOG), will create official guides and aid in adapting widely used paperwork, including income tax declarations, minimum income applications, DNI procedures, and migrant regularization forms. Hospitals will need to offer support and information in accessible formats, while train and bus stations must have clearer signage and orientation aids.
Government websites must adhere to stricter digital accessibility standards. Unlike other disability-focused legislation, this regulation explicitly includes migrants and foreign residents who are not fluent in Spanish or regional languages among those it aims to assist. While the decree ensures that Spanish becomes more understandable through shorter sentences, reduced legal jargon, visual aids, and staff trained to explain procedures clearly, it does not guarantee translations into other languages or a right to complete official processes without using Spanish.
The decree does not specify when each sector must comply, suggesting that updates to forms, signs, and websites will occur gradually, with CEACOG monitoring progress and providing technical guidance to public bodies.
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