- Appointment of the Prime Minister and government ministers, based on the results of general elections.
- Acting as head of state and representing the country in international affairs.
- Sanctioning and promulgating laws passed by the Cortes Generales, the Spanish parliament.
- Supreme command of the armed forces.
- Declaring war and making peace, in consultation with the Cortes Generales.
- Granting pardons and clemency.
- Issuing royal decrees and regulations, in accordance with the Constitution and laws.
It's important to note that while King Juan Carlos had these powers, he exercised them in a largely symbolic and ceremonial capacity, as Spain operates under a parliamentary monarchy, where the Prime Minister and the government hold executive power.