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Starting January 1, 2026, Renfe will return to its previous policy of compensating passengers for train delays of 15 and 30 minutes, offering 50% and 100% refunds respectively on tickets for its high-speed and long-distance services. This decision follows an amendment approved by Spain’s Congress, backed by several political parties including the PP, Vox, Junts, ERC, and PNV, restoring the punctuality commitments in place before last July.

 

This move reverses changes made in July 2024, when Renfe had reduced compensation to 50% for delays over 60 minutes and 100% only for delays exceeding 90 minutes, aiming to align with new liberalised market rules and European legislation.

 

Despite the new law, the Ministry of Transport, led by Óscar Puente, and Renfe itself have expressed concerns. They argue the reinstatement might put Renfe at a competitive disadvantage compared to private operators Ouigo and Iryo, which follow European regulations offering compensation for delays of 60 minutes or more but not for shorter delays.

 

Ouigo issues refunds mainly as non-refundable vouchers, while Iryo offers either vouchers or cash refunds. The debate continues over whether the new compensation rules will extend to these private companies or remain unique to Renfe.

 

Minister Puente has indicated that legal avenues to prevent this change are being explored, as the government weighs the effects on Spain’s rail market. Meanwhile, passengers can anticipate a return to more generous compensation once the law takes effect next year.

 

 

 

 

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