Navigating employee leave entitlements in Cabo Verde requires a clear understanding of the local labor code. Employers operating in the country, whether through a local entity or by employing remote workers, must comply with regulations governing various types of leave, including annual vacation, public holidays, sick leave, and parental leave. Ensuring compliance is crucial for smooth operations and maintaining positive employee relations.
Understanding these requirements is essential for managing a compliant workforce in Cabo Verde. The framework for employee leave is established by national labor laws, which set minimum standards that employers must meet. Adhering to these standards helps businesses avoid potential legal issues and supports employee well-being.
Annual Vacation Leave
Employees in Cabo Verde are entitled to paid annual leave. The minimum entitlement is typically 22 working days per year after completing one year of service. During the first year of employment, employees usually accrue 2 days of leave for each full month worked, up to a maximum of 22 days.
- Entitlement: Minimum 22 working days per year after 12 months of service.
- Accrual: 2 working days per month during the first year of service.
- Timing: Leave is generally taken by agreement between the employer and employee.
- Carry-over: Specific rules may apply regarding the carry-over of unused leave days to the following year.
Public Holidays
Cabo Verde observes several national public holidays throughout the year. Employees are generally entitled to a paid day off on these holidays. If an employee is required to work on a public holiday, they are typically entitled to premium pay or compensatory time off, as stipulated by the labor law or collective agreements.
Here are the standard public holidays observed in Cabo Verde:
| Date | Holiday |
|---|---|
| January 1 | New Year's Day |
| January 13 | Democracy Day |
| January 20 | National Heroes' Day |
| May 1 | International Workers' Day |
| July 5 | Independence Day |
| August 15 | Assumption Day |
| September 12 | National Day |
| November 1 | All Saints' Day |
| December 25 | Christmas Day |
Note: Movable holidays such as Carnival Tuesday and Good Friday are also observed, with specific dates varying each year.
Sick Leave
Employees in Cabo Verde are entitled to paid sick leave in case of illness or injury. The duration and payment of sick leave are typically regulated by social security provisions and labor law.
- Entitlement: Employees are generally entitled to sick leave upon presentation of a medical certificate.
- Duration: The duration of paid sick leave can vary, often depending on the length of service and the specific illness. Initial days may be paid by the employer, with longer periods covered by social security benefits.
- Payment: Sick pay rates and the responsible party (employer or social security) depend on the duration of the leave and the employee's contributions. A medical certificate is usually required from the first day of absence.
Parental Leave
Cabo Verdean law provides for various types of parental leave, including maternity, paternity, and adoption leave, to support employees welcoming a new child.
- Maternity Leave: Pregnant employees are entitled to maternity leave. The standard duration is typically 60 days, which can be taken before and after childbirth. Maternity leave is usually paid through social security benefits, provided the employee meets eligibility requirements.
- Paternity Leave: Fathers are also entitled to paternity leave upon the birth of a child. The duration is generally shorter than maternity leave, typically a few days, and is usually paid by the employer.
- Adoption Leave: Employees who adopt a child are also entitled to leave, similar in principle to maternity or paternity leave, to care for the newly adopted child. The specific duration and conditions may vary.
Other Types of Leave
Beyond the main categories, Cabo Verdean labor law may recognize other types of leave for specific circumstances:
- Bereavement Leave: Employees are typically entitled to a short period of paid leave in the event of the death of a close family member.
- Study Leave: Depending on the sector, collective agreements, or company policy, employees may be granted leave for educational purposes.
- Marriage Leave: Employees are usually entitled to a few days of paid leave for their own marriage.
- Other Absences: The law may also cover absences for reasons such as attending court, voting, or fulfilling other civic duties.
Specific entitlements and conditions for these types of leave can vary based on the labor code, collective bargaining agreements, and individual company policies.
