What you need to know for employing in Colombia

Employee contributions include Health Contribution, Pension Contribution, and the Solidarity Pension Fund.

As of 2023, the working hours will be gradually decreased to 42 hours weekly, and 7 hours daily. Employers can implement the working hours reduction as of July, 2021; however, all employers MUST implement the new working hours as follows:  

• July 2023: 47 hours weekly  

• July, 2024: 46 hours weekly  

• July, 2025: 44 hours weekly  

• July, 2026: 42 hours weekly  

Overtime allowed but a permit from the Labor Ministry is required.

Employer pays sick leave during the employee's absence but, as from the third day of sick leave, the employer can claim the payment back from the social security system.

Maternity leave 18 weeks 100% paid.

Paternity leave 2 weeks 100% paid.

+ Parental leave distribution of the last 6 weeks of the 18 weeks from the maternity leave between both parents. Both parents may also select a part time leave

15 working days of paid vacation for each year of service.

Severance payment only required in cases of termination without cause.

Severance will be dependent on several factors such as seniority, type of contract and amount of salary.

An employee can only be dismissed for causes established by law.

Formal process must be followed.

For termination without cause the employee is entitled to a severance payment.