Over 1,800 euros in fines for traveling to Morocco without notice

In Spain, unemployment benefit recipients have an obligation to inform the Public Employment Service (SEPE) of any trip abroad exceeding 15 days. A Moroccan woman, who had been receiving her benefits since the end of 2021, had her benefits suspended after a trip to Morocco between February 12 and March 8, 2022. The administration is now demanding the reimbursement of 1,811.93 euros that were unduly received.

On Bladi.net: Over 8,500 euros in fines for traveling to Morocco without notice

According to the information from El Economista, the plaintiff tried to justify her extended absence due to a medical emergency. She initially claimed she only wanted to stay for 14 days, but would have been forced to extend her stay after testing positive for Covid-19. However, the public agency considered that this situation did not exempt her from her notification obligation.

Spanish legislation on social offenses qualifies this failure as a serious offense. Article 25 of the regulations stipulates that it is imperative to communicate any situation leading to the suspension or termination of the right to benefits. The SEPE considers that staying outside the country for more than two weeks is incompatible with the continued payment of the benefit without prior authorization.

On Bladi.net: Over 12,000 euros in fines for traveling to Morocco without notice

The Superior Court of Justice of Madrid ultimately validated the sanction, confirming an initial decision by the labor court. The judges noted that the woman had provided no documentary evidence of her coronavirus infection. The court also stressed that she had taken no steps to communicate before, during or after her return from Morocco.