Wages are not only a reward, but also a right, and a key indicator of the state of a country's economy and labour policies.
In Spain, it is regulated by the so-called Minimum Interprofessional Salary (SMI), which establishes the minimum amount that a worker can receive for his or her services.
This is set annually by the government, taking into account such factors as inflation, productivity, the country's economic capacity and welfare general workers' rights.
The SMI thus becomes a mechanism for ensuring economic justice and protect workers against possible abuses.
In this article, our intention is to give a clear and concise breakdown of the Minimum Interprofessional Wage for the year 2023 in Spain.
We will present the definitive table of the SMI and explain the factors that influence its establishment. We will also analyse how the SMI is calculated and the consequences of not complying with it.
Finally, we will put the SMI into perspective and present an ideal option for those seeking to legal advice in the field of labour law: Ódice Abogados, our prestigious employment law firm in Malaga.
Definition of the Minimum Interprofessional Wage
The Minimum Interprofessional Wage (SMI) is a crucial element in the labour sphere that marks the baseline in labour remuneration.
Represents the minimum amount that a worker should receive for the provision of services on a full-time basisregardless of the sector or industry in which you are working.
In addition, the SMI also has a symbolic dimension important. By setting a wage threshold that all employers must respect, the SMI sends the message that the work of all individuals has value and deserves to be rewarded with fair remuneration.
In this sense, the SMI is a a tool that contributes to protecting workers' rights and promoting social justice in the labour sphere.
What does "interprofessional" mean?
The term "interprofessional" in the SMI indicates that this minimum wage is universally applicable. In other words, the SMI applies equally to all workers, regardless of their profession, whether they are farmers, engineers, doctors, hotel and catering workers, or others.

How is the Minimum Interprofessional Wage calculated?
The setting of the SMI is not an arbitrary or static act. Each year, the government reviews and fixes the SMI taking into account a number of factors such as the cost of living, labour productivity, the share of wages in national output and the general welfare of workers.
On this basis, the SMI is calculated on the basis of one working day or one working month. In the table below, we present the annual calculation considering 14 and 12 payments, since in Spain, normally, they are made in the following way two extra paymentsOne in summer and one at Christmas.
Table of Minimum Interprofessional Wage in Spain 2023
The SMI for the year 2023 is regulated by the Royal Decree 99/2023 of 14 February.
On the basis of this Royal Decree, the table of Minimum Interprofessional Wage Spain 2023, taking into account domestic service and seasonal workers, is:
Concept | Quantity |
SMI 2023 - 14 payments | 1080 € |
SMI 2023 - 12 payments | 1260 € |
SMI 2023 per day (14 payments) | 36 € |
SMI per hour domestic service 2023 | 8,45 € |
SMI 2023 for seasonal workers | 51,15 € / day |
In conclusion, the Minimum Interprofessional Wage 2023 is €15,120 gross per year.
Factors influencing the Minimum Inter-professional Wage
The SMI is a reflection of the economy and the socio-political context of the country.
For this reason, when setting the Minimum Interprofessional Wage, with the aim of maintaining a balance between the needs of workers and the capacity of companies to pay wages, the Government considers that the minimum wage should be set at the same level as the minimum wage. economic factors as:
- The inflation.
- The indices from productivity.
- The labour market situation.
- General economic conditions.
But also, social considerationsThe EU's position on the right to work, such as the need to guarantee all workers a wage that allows them to meet their basic needs and live in dignity.
Consequences of not complying with the Minimum Interprofessional Wage
Non-compliance with the SMI is a serious labour infringementThis is a legal duty for employers in Spain.
Ignoring this duty can have serious consequences, which can range from from financial penalties up to labour disputes.
Let us look in detail at what can happen if an employer does not respect the SMI set by the government:
Administrative Sanctions
Non-compliance with the SMI is considered a serious offence under Spanish labour law.
Firms that do not comply with the SMI may be subject to labour inspections and, in the event of rape, they may face financial penalties significant. These penalties may vary depending on the degree of infringement and the number of workers affected.
Labour Litigation
If a worker discovers that his pay is below the SMI, he has the right to take legal action against his employer.
Such litigation may result in the employer's obligation to pay the difference of wages owed, as well as any possible damages.
Reputation and Labour Relations
Failure to respect the SMI can seriously damage a company's reputation, especially in an era when workers increasingly value fair and ethical business practices.
Failure to comply with basic labour standards can discourage quality potential employees from joining the company and can cause labour disputeswhich can lead to strikesreduction of the productivity and a working environment negative.
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