How long is sick leave in Uruguay?

Employees in Uruguay may claim a social security benefit of 70% of their salary for up to 1 year of sick leave, which may be extended for an additional year.

Eligibility for salary replacement requires the employee to have made social security contributions for at least 75 days or 3 months within the 12 months prior to the date of illness.

What are the eligibility rules for sick leave in Uruguay?

In Uruguay, employees are eligible for a social security benefit of 70% of their salary for a period of up to 1 year, which may be extended for an additional year, starting from the fourth day of absence due to illness. To qualify for this salary replacement, the employee must have made social security contributions for at least 75 days or 3 months within the 12 months prior to the date of illness.

How is sick leave payment calculated in Uruguay?

In Uruguay, sick leave payment is structured as follows:

• The employer is obligated to pay the supported employee's salary for the first 3 days of sick leave. The specific duration can vary depending on the employee's seniority and whether they have dependents.
• Starting from the fourth day of sick leave, the Banco de Previsión Social (BPS) is responsible for the payment. Employees can claim a social security benefit in the amount of 70% of their salary for up to 1 year, with the possibility of extending this period for another year.
• In the case of occupational diseases or work-related accidents, workers' compensation insurance covered by the Banco de Seguros del Estado (BSE) applies.

Eligibility criteria for the social security benefit include:

• The employee must have made social security contributions for at least 75 days.
• Alternatively, the employee must have contributed for a minimum of 3 months within the 12 months preceding the illness.

What is the process for applying for sick leave in Uruguay?

In Uruguay, the process for applying for sick leave involves several steps:

• The supported employee must obtain a medical certificate from a doctor.
• This medical certificate should be submitted to the employer, ideally on the first day of absence.