Do you know what is the amount of the minimum interprofessional wage for this year 2023? Are you completely clear on the concept of SMI or minimum wage? Do you want to know what is the SMI for casual, seasonal and domestic workers? If so, join us, today you will be able to clarify all the doubts you have about it.
Minimum wage – what does it consist of?
When we talk about the minimum interprofessional wage, we are referring to the minimum monetary remuneration that a worker must receive by legal mandate, beyond his position or profession. In other words, workers should never be paid less than this threshold amount, regardless of their employment.
It is worth noting, in order to avoid confusion, that only cash remuneration is taken into account in calculating the SMI. Consequently, in the event that an employee receives part of the salary in kind, this cannot in any way diminish the amount of the salary.
Legal framework for the minimum interprofessional wage
The regulation of the SMI is the responsibility of the Spanish Government. This, after discussion and consultation with various trade union organizations and important business associations, is established by Royal Decree, which is published annually.
This year 2023 the SMI was established in Royal Decree number 99/2023 dated February 14.
Increase in the minimum interprofessional wage in 2023.
The SMI for this year increased by 8% with respect to the immediately preceding year. This remuneration, which corresponds to the gross salary of all employees, was set at 1,080 euros per month, distributed in 14 payments.
The above translates into 15,120 euros per year and if we translate it into days it is 36 euros per working day. In the case of a 12-pay salary distribution, this amounts to 1,260 euros per month.
It should be noted that this remuneration refers to the legal working day without including remuneration for Sundays and holidays. Likewise, the minimum interprofessional salary must be increased by all salary supplements established in the different labor contracts and collective bargaining agreements.
Minimum interprofessional wage for domestic workers and seasonal and temporary workers
In the case of minimum wages for seasonal workers, as well as for temporary workers, it is established that they cannot be less than 51.15 euros per day.
With respect to domestic employees, the minimum wage was set at 8.45 euros. It should be noted that this amount corresponds to each hour worked.
Main objectives to be achieved with this SIM increase
According to the Spanish government representatives, the objectives to be achieved with this salary increase are as follows:
To provide workers with a salary that allows them to have a dignified life, ensuring sufficient remuneration that is as equitable as possible.
Comply with the commitments made by the legislature and the Executive and with the provisions established by the European Committee.
To ensure the purchasing power of workers.
Likewise, it is worth noting that this increase in the SIM favors the recovery of economic activities and promotes sustained economic growth.
In addition, it should be noted that the SIM ranks seventh among all minimum wages in Europe. However, the difference between Spain’s minimum wage and the salaries of the countries in the first six positions is substantial and notable. Finally, it is necessary to remember that the minimum wage is absolutely unseizable.