If you're asking yourself the question: can I be denied moving day, you're not alone. Moving house involves a lot of paperwork, and the last thing you want is to clash with your company for requesting this day. What does the law say? How can you justify it correctly? In which cases can there be problems? Here I tell you step by step, with real examples, so that you know how to ask for this leave without stumbling over it.
When can a company say no to a moving day?
The general rule is simple: the leave is designed to facilitate a change of residence. It is not just any day off. So when could they say no to you?
- If you do not prove that it is your habitual residence. If what you are changing is your second home, a holiday home or a temporary flat, the company has reason to question this.
- If you don't give plenty of notice. The law requires advance notice and justification. If you give notice in a hurry and without a clear explanation, it will be easier for someone to raise the objection that you may be denied a moving day.
- If you do not provide any supporting documents. The rental contract, the deed, the census certificate, an invoice from the removal company or the paperwork for the change of utilities are enough to justify it. Without these, it is more difficult to defend the permit.
- If you use the permit too far away from the actual day. It is not a question of asking for it “when it is convenient”. It should be linked to when you actually move. If you deviate too much, you feed the possibility that you may be denied moving day.
How to ask for it properly so that it is not disputed?
There is a clear and simple way to do it. Here it goes:
- Communicate in writing (mail to HR or your line manager) stating the expected date and that it is a removal leave.
- Attach any supporting documentsContract, registration or invoice.
- Explain brieflyI am moving from my usual place of residence to [address]“.
- Indicate the day you will be absent. If you move at the weekend, ask for the next working day.
- Keep a record of everything. Either acknowledgement of receipt or confirmation by post.
What documents support your application?
The more concrete and recent what you present, the more support you have:
- Rental contract with a date close to the move-in date.
- Deed or contract of sale with handover of keys.
- Registration receipt or certificate of census registration.
- Moving invoice with the exact day of service.
- Electricity, water or internet connection or change, close to the requested date.
These documents are not compulsory all together, but they do help to make everything clear. And with that, it is difficult to be denied moving day.
What does the law say about this permit?
It is paid leave, i.e. you are paid for that day as if you were working. The minimum legal duration is one day, although there are agreements that extend it to two. It doesn't matter what type of contract you have or your seniority: the right exists whether you are a trainee or a probationer.
The purpose is very clear: to make it easier to move from your usual place of residence. It is not a wild card to take a day off. And although the company can offer you other options such as relocating the day or teleworking, they cannot impose it on you over the leave.
Typical cases giving rise to doubts
What if the move is at the weekend?
No problem. If you move on a Saturday or Sunday, you can order on Monday. Please enclose the invoice or delivery note with your request.
I work shifts, what do I do?
Leave does not depend on the time of day. If your move is in the morning and you work at night, you can adjust the day to suit your needs. Just make sure you state this on the application form.
What if the company says there are peak workloads on that day?
That doesn't cancel your right. There can be dialogue to find a time that doesn't affect you so much, but it doesn't serve as an excuse to deny it.
What if I am offered telework instead of leave?
It's up to you. If it suits you, go ahead. But if it doesn't work out the logistics, remember: the leave is for that day and they shouldn't replace it without your consent.
Mistakes that can complicate your life
Requesting it without stating the exact date, not attaching any documents or requesting it at the last minute are mistakes that only fuel the debate that you may be denied the moving day. It can also cause problems if you ask for the moving day too far apart or if you do not explain well that it is your usual place of residence.
What does your collective agreement say?
The Workers' Statute sets the minimum, but your collective agreement may offer more advantages: two days instead of one, compensation for long removals, or even ready-made application forms.
For consultation:
- Check your contract or payroll and locate the name of the agreement.
- Look for the current version in the BOE or on the union's website.
- Check if it includes specific articles on moving.
If you find improvements, mention them in your application. This way you can pre-empt any attempt to justify that you may be denied on moving day.
What to do if you are denied for no reason?
First, ask to be refused in writing and explain the reasons. Then resubmit the request, including the article of the law or the agreement that protects you. If they do not give in, you can talk to legal representation or go to the Labour Inspectorate. Always keep a professional tone and look for options within the legal framework. The last thing you want is unnecessary conflict.
Model mail to apply for a permit
Subject: Paid leave for moving house
Hello, [Name]:
I request paid leave to move from my usual place of residence on [date]. I enclose [contract/registration/invoice for the move], which certifies the move. As the move will take place on [indicate if it is a weekend], I request to take the leave on the first following working day.
I remain at your disposal to coordinate with the team without losing the purpose of the permit.
Thank you,
[Your name and ID] [Your name and ID
If your agreement improves the legal minimum, add a line mentioning the relevant article.
Frequently asked questions
Can I order it to pack boxes before shipment?
It is not the purpose of the permit. It is intended for the day of the transfer itself. If you need more time, combine it with holidays or personal hours.
What if the moving company changes the date at the last minute?
Report it as soon as possible and provide the new proof. If there is transparency, there should be no problem.
Can leave be split into hours?
It depends on the company. Legally it is a full day, but if both parties agree to split it, it can be agreed in writing.
Does it apply if I am on probation or have a temporary contract?
Yes, the right exists from the first day of employment, regardless of your type of contract.
Need more space for your move?
If you are in the midst of moving house and you are overwhelmed by the chaos, at Palma Trasteros we help you to make everything go more smoothly. We offer storage room rentals in Palma de Mallorca, with 24/7 surveillance, flexible contracts and personalised advice.
You can store furniture, boxes or anything that doesn't fit in the house during the move, without rushing or improvising. Write to us or call us without obligation and we will help you choose the ideal size for your case. With our storage room rentals in Palma de Mallorca, your move is more organised and your belongings are better protected.
