Colombia Employment Guide

Colombia Employment Guide

Colombia is in northwestern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea (north), Pacific Ocean (west), Venezuela, Brazil (east), Peru, Ecuador (south). It has ~51 million people; Spanish is official, and Bogotá is the capital. Its economy is service-led, with fast-growing finance, energy, tourism, export-oriented agriculture and manufacturing. Labor laws (per Código Sustantivo del Trabajo) protect wages, hours, leave and social security. Standard workweek: 48 hours (overtime needs extra pay). Salaries are usually monthly (avg. COP 2.5 million pre-tax). Laws cover paid leave and protect temp/contract workers, balancing interests for a fair, flexible labor market.

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Currency

Colombian Peso (COP, $)

Capital

Bogotá

Official language

Spanish

Salary Cycle

Monthly

Our Employment Guide in Colombia

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Paid Time Off Policy for Colombian Workforce

Both full-time and part-time employees are entitled to 15 working days of paid time off annually. This PTO accrues at a rate of 1.25 days per month. Eligibility for annual leave requires completion of one full year of continuous service with the company.

National Public Holidays in Colombia

Colombia recognizes 18 official public holidays throughout the calendar year. These nationally observed holidays include:

  1. New Year's Day (January 1)
  2. Epiphany (January 6)
  3. Saint Joseph's Day (March 19)
  4. Holy Thursday (Date varies)
  5. Good Friday (Date varies)
  6. Labor Day (May 1)
  7. Ascension Day (Date varies)
  8. Corpus Christi (Date varies)
  9. Sacred Heart (Date varies)
  10. Saint Peter and Saint Paul (June 29)
  11. Independence Day (July 20)
  12. Battle of Boyacá (August 7)
  13. Assumption of Mary (August 15)
  14. Columbus Day (October 12)
  15. All Saints' Day (November 1)
  16. Cartagena Independence Day (November 11)
  17. Immaculate Conception (December 8)
  18. Christmas Day (December 25)

Global HR Perspective: Implementing Leave Policies

When companies like SailGlobal establish operations in Colombia, understanding local leave entitlements becomes crucial for compliance and employee satisfaction. The combination of generous PTO and numerous public holidays creates a balanced work-life environment that aligns with Colombian labor culture.

Practical Considerations for International Employers

Employers should note that several Colombian holidays follow the liturgical calendar, resulting in variable dates each year. Proper planning and communication about holiday schedules help maintain operational efficiency while respecting local traditions.

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