Sick leave

# Sick Leave in Costa Rica

Costa Rica does not mandate a statutory minimum number of paid sick leave days at the national level. Employers are not required by law to provide sick leave as a separate entitlement, though employees may be entitled to income protection during periods of incapacity due to illness or injury through the social security system.

The regulation of sick leave in Costa Rica falls under the Labor Code (Código de Trabajo) and is administered by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security (Ministerio de Trabajo y Seguridad Social). The social security system, managed by the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CAJA), provides disability benefits for workers unable to work due to illness or occupational injury, but these are distinct from employer-provided sick leave policies.

In practice, many employers in Costa Rica offer sick leave as part of their employment agreements or internal policies, though this is a matter of contractual negotiation rather than statutory obligation. When employees are absent due to illness, they may qualify for social security benefits if the incapacity is certified by an authorized medical professional and meets the fund's eligibility criteria.

Employers and payroll teams should clarify sick leave provisions in individual employment contracts and ensure compliance with any company policies established. Documentation of medical certification is essential when employees claim benefits through the social security system. Organizations should also maintain clear records of absences and coordinate with the CAJA regarding any claims for disability benefits. Consulting with local labor counsel is advisable to ensure employment agreements align with Costa Rican labor law requirements.