04/05/2026
Spain’s anti-money laundering authority, Servicio Ejecutivo de la Comisión de Prevención del Blanqueo de Capitales e Infracciones Monetarias (SEPBLAC), has published new guidance on the application of simplified customer due diligence. The guidance comes amid ongoing changes to the European anti-money laundering framework and increasing alignment with the EU’s new AMLR.
According to SEPBLAC, simplified due diligence should not be seen as a reduction of AML/CFT obligations, but as a proportionate application of the risk-based approach. Firms must carry out a robust case-by-case risk assessment before applying simplified measures and be able to justify why a customer presents a low-risk profile.
The guidance explains that simplified measures may include reduced verification requirements or less frequent monitoring, depending on the identified level of risk. However, any change in a customer’s risk profile should immediately trigger a reassessment of the level of due diligence applied.
SEPBLAC also places strong emphasis on governance, internal controls and auditability. Organisations are expected to maintain clear and consistent records that demonstrate both the risk assessment process and the rationale for applying simplified due diligence measures.
The publication is already influencing the review of risk scoring models, customer segmentation criteria and risk thresholds across the sector. SEPBLAC noted that the guidance anticipates further convergence with Regulation (EU) 2024/1624, which will become fully applicable from 2027 onward.