The Active Population Survey for the third quarter of 2026 reports 2,591,200 unemployed. There are 73,600 more employed, but unemployment increases by 95,900 people compared to the previous quarter.
According to iberoeconomia.es, the Active Population Survey (EPA) for the third quarter of 2026, prepared by the National Institute of Statistics, records 2,591,200 unemployed people in Spain. This figure comes in a quarter where employment is also on the rise.
The employed population totals 22.85 million, with an increase of 73,600 jobs in the quarter. The unemployment rate stands at 10.18%, three-tenths higher than in the previous quarter.
Unemployment grows by 95,900 people, while the active population increases by 169,500. More people are entering the labour market, but not all find employment during the analysed period.
By sector, services add 235,600 jobs. In contrast, agriculture loses 58,300 jobs, industry 54,400, and construction 49,300.
Regarding the type of employment, the public sector gains 89,900 jobs while the private sector loses 16,300. Self-employed workers decrease by 15,500 people.
For the labour market, the evolution of industry and construction is the area that requires the most attention, due to its impact on productivity and investment. Young people, long-term unemployed, and those seeking their first job are the groups that most need economic growth to translate into stable employment.
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