How long is sick leave in Costa Rica?

In Costa Rica, the law does not specify a fixed number of sick days. Employees who are part of the social security system are entitled to paid medical leave for any illness or condition, excluding those resulting from an occupational disease or risk. The Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) permits the extension of sick leave for as long as it is medically advisable, based on the recommendation from a doctor within the CCSS.

What are the eligibility rules for sick leave in Costa Rica?

Employees in Costa Rica must meet specific eligibility rules for sick leave:

• An employee must have made a contribution to social security in the month before becoming ill.
• If an employee leaves their previous company and starts a new job within less than three months, their Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) coverage will remain active.
• If more than three months have passed since the last job, the employee can still use their coverage from the start date but will need a letter from the new employer acknowledging that they are an active employee. This rule only applies if the illness occurs before the social security contribution has been reported. Social security contributions are reported within the first six days of the following month.

How is sick leave payment calculated in Costa Rica?

In Costa Rica, sick leave payment is calculated as follows:

• For the first 3 days of sick leave, the employer is required to pay at least 50% of the supported employee's wages.
• Starting from the 4th day, the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, CCSS) covers approximately 60% of the supported employee’s standard income.
• Although not mandatory, it is common practice for the employer to cover the remaining 40% of the supported employee’s wages from the 4th day onward.

What is the process for applying for sick leave in Costa Rica?

To apply for sick leave in Costa Rica, an employee must submit a form provided by the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) to their employer. This form outlines the start and end dates of the sick leave.

If the sick leave form is issued by a private doctor, the employee must visit a social security office to have it validated.