Spain’s government has enacted modern regulations prohibiting banks from issuing unsolicited credit cards or increasing credit limits without explicit customer consent, a measure designed to curb abusive banking practices and reduce household debt. The reforms, confirmed on Monday, February 9, 2026, form part of a broader draft law on consumer credit contracts currently under consideration by the Ministry of Economy.
The new rules address a practice where financial institutions previously included credit cards in bundled commercial packages or unilaterally raised spending limits. While not always illegal, these actions often led to consumers being saddled with unexpected financial products and associated debts, according to the government. The anteproyecto de Ley de Contratos de Crédito al Consumo specifically “prohibits all granting of credit to consumers who have not previously requested it and without their express consent,” according to official statements.
Beyond credit cards, the legislation also establishes limits on bank overdrafts and revolving credit facilities, further tightening regulations on consumer credit. The government, led by Pedro Sánchez, aims to reinforce financial protections for consumers and address growing concerns about over-indebtedness among families. The move builds on a recent decision to prevent banks from charging interest and fees on the same debt multiple times.
The Ministry of Economy has indicated that the draft law is intended to tackle practices considered abusive and reduce the financial strain on households. The government has not yet announced a firm date for the final approval and implementation of the law, but the confirmation of the core prohibitions signals a clear shift in regulatory approach.
