Artificial intelligence is transforming the global job market, from customer service to marketing, translation, and data entry. In Spain, about 20% of companies are using AI systems but most are still experimenting, particularly to optimize internal processes and for marketing, according to a recent analysis by Bank of Spain.

The report found limited use of AI for task automation or innovation, and about 80% of firms said they do not expect AI to affect employment. Among companies already using these tools, most anticipate a positive impact. While respondents to the survey may sound rosy, layoffs are already happening in other major economies like the US.

In October 2025, US employers cut more than 150,000 due to AI adoption and cost-cutting. It’s the largest reduction for that month in more than two decades, according to global outplacement and career coaching firm, Challenger, Gray & Christmas.

Losing your job to AI can feel overwhelming, but there are practical steps you can take to protect your finances, identify new opportunities and plan your next move with confidence.

1. Check with a gestor about unemployment benefits (paro)

If you’ve recently lost your job, your first step should be to check whether you qualify for paro (Spain’s unemployment benefits). A gestor (a professional who handles administrative and tax matters) can help you navigate the bureaucracy, ensure your paperwork is complete, and confirm your eligibility.

Eligibility depends on how long you’ve been contributing to social security (seguridad social) and the nature of your employment contract. Your gestor can also guide you through the digital platforms for filing claims, such as the SEPE (Servicio Público de Empleo Estatal).

2. Review your tax setup

Job loss or reduced income can affect your tax obligations, particularly if you’ve been working as an autónomo (self-employed). A gestor can help you adjust your tax structure, declare any changes in income, and make sure you’re not overpaying.

If you receive paro or a government subsidy, those payments may also have tax implications. Keeping your records in order now can prevent problems when filing your next IRPF (income tax) declaration.

3. Reassess your savings and expenses

Unexpected unemployment is a financial stress test. Review your savings, emergency fund, and recurring expenses. Aim to cover at least three to six months of living costs if possible.

If your income has stopped, prioritize essentials including rent or mortgage, utilities, and food, while temporarily cutting discretionary spending like restaurants and entertainment. Some banks in Spain may offer temporary relief or restructuring options if your job loss impacts your ability to repay loans.

4. Reskill or upskill in growing industries

Losing a job to AI doesn’t mean you’re out of the game; it means it’s time to pivot. Identify industries that are growing in the AI era: data analysis, cybersecurity, software development, AI ethics, or digital services.

Many Spanish universities and online platforms, including Coursera and LinkedIn Learning, offer affordable or even free programs to boost your digital literacy. Some ayuntamientos (local councils) also offer reskilling grants or vocational training programs.

5. Work with a career coach

A career coach can help you assess your strengths, clarify what you want from your next career stage, and design a plan that aligns with your passions. Whether you want to move into tech or switch fields entirely, professional guidance can save you time and frustration.

If you were in a creative or communications field, consider how you can work alongside AI—using it as a tool rather than competition. The goal is to future-proof your career by adapting rather than resisting.

6. Explore new income streams

While job hunting, consider short-term or part-time opportunities to maintain cash flow. Freelancing, tutoring, remote work, or starting a small digital side business can help bridge the gap. Platforms like Malt, Fiverr, and Upwork connect Spanish professionals with clients across Europe.

7. Take care of your mental health

Job loss caused by automation can be emotionally taxing. Reach out to family, friends, or professionals if you’re feeling anxious or uncertain. Spain’s public health system and private providers offer mental health support, and many NGOs also provide free counseling services.

AI may be one of the biggest disruptors of this generation, but it could also bring new opportunities. It’s important to reshape how we think about our professional value, and pivot to hopefully a career that is even more satisfying than previous.

Start by stabilizing your finances, seeking expert advice from a gestor, and exploring new skills that will make you more adaptable in a digital economy. The future of work in Spain is evolving, and with the right mindset and preparation, you can evolve with it.