New rules for artists and technical crew contracts in Spain

Royal Decree 607/2026 regulates the special employment relationship in performing arts, audiovisual and music, including technical and auxiliary staff.

What Royal Decree 607/2026 says

The Official State Gazette (BOE) has published Royal Decree 607/2026, of 22 July. This rule regulates the special labour relationship of artists working in performing arts, audiovisual and musical activities. It also covers people who carry out technical or auxiliary tasks essential for those activities.

What a special labour relationship means

A special labour relationship is a type of employment contract with its own rules. It fits sectors where the way of working does not match the ordinary contract. This decree creates a specific framework for artists and technical staff. According to the BOE, the rule affects their social security contributions and working conditions.

Sectors covered by the decree

• Performing arts: theatre, dance, circus, live shows.
• Audiovisual arts: film, television, series, streaming platforms.
• Musical arts: concerts, recordings, orchestras, bands.
• Technical and auxiliary staff: lighting, sound, set design, wardrobe, make-up, stage management and other trades needed for production.

What changes for workers

The decree sets the rules on hiring, working time, rest periods, wages and Social Security contributions for these groups. Until now, many of these workers were in a grey area between employment and self-employment. The new rule aims to provide legal certainty and equalise rights.

Next steps

The full text is available in the BOE. Companies and workers in the sector should review their contracts and adapt them to the Royal Decree. For questions on how this affects your case, consult a labour law specialist or a graduado social.