The idea is that if an area sees an increase in cases or widespread disregard for the rules it can step back a phase to prevent a resurgence of the virus. The decision to advance or step back will be taken on a regional basis but by Madrid rather than by local governments. To maintain its control over the process, the Spanish government plans to request a further two week extension of the State of Alarm from May 9th.

In Phase Zero, which started when children were allowed out on April 26th, adults will be allowed out for exercise from May 2nd, business will be allowed to open via pre-booked appointments, restaurants will be allowed to offer delivery services, professional sportspeople will be able to train, and individual classes will be allowed in gyms. 

In Phase One, which starts on May 4th in La Graciosa, El Hierro and La Gomera, and on the May 11th in other areas of  Spain with low virus levels, people will be able move freely within their province, small businesses to open with strict rules, outdoor bars and restaurants will open at 30% capacity. The fishing and agriculture industries will return to work with new rules about distancing, as will churches and temples at 30% of capacity. Masks will be recommended but not obligatory on public transport. Shopping centres will not open. Hotels and apartment complexes will be allowed to open but with reduced capacity and limits on the use of common areas such as swimming pools. 

People over the age of 65 will have a set period of the day when they are able to shop without other generations being present (the government has now announced how it plans to stop them buying all the wine and selling it on at inflated prices). 

In Phase Two, restaurants will open with table service only, schools will open for children under six with parents who have to work, reinforcement classes, and EBAU university entry exams. The standard school year will not begin until September. Visits to cultural centers, cinemas and theatres will be possible, but only at a third of their usual capacity. Outdoor cultural events will also be allowed, but with less than 400 people seated at a safe social distance. Indoor events will be limted to 50 people. 

In Phase Three restrictions on movement will be reduced and wearing a mask in public will be recommended. Beaches and natural spaces will be opened up again with rules about distancing. Cinemas and theatres will be allowed to operate at 50% capacity.  Working from home will be recommended until phase three.

The timing of each phase will depend on virus levels and the state of healthcare in each province or autonomous region. With the lowest virus rates in Spain, Gran Canaria and the Canary Islands will be amongst the first regions to move from phase to phase starting on May 9th.