Cabo Verdean labor law provides a framework for various types of leave to protect employees' well-being and work-life balance. Understanding these entitlements is crucial for employers operating in Cabo Verde to ensure compliance and maintain positive employee relations. The information below outlines the key aspects of vacation, public holiday, sick leave, parental leave, and other types of leave available to employees in Cabo Verde in 2025.
Adhering to Cabo Verde's leave regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a way to foster a supportive work environment. Employers should stay informed about any updates to the legislation to ensure their policies align with the latest requirements. This guide offers a detailed overview of the different types of leave available to employees in Cabo Verde, helping employers navigate their responsibilities effectively.
Annual Vacation Leave
Employees in Cabo Verde are entitled to annual vacation leave, which is designed to allow them to rest and rejuvenate. The minimum annual leave entitlement is 22 days per year.
- Entitlement: 22 days per year
- Accrual: Leave is accrued based on the number of months worked during the year.
- Timing: The timing of the leave should be mutually agreed upon between the employer and employee, unless otherwise specified in a collective agreement.
- Carryover: While generally discouraged, carrying over vacation days may be permitted under specific circumstances, subject to agreement between the employer and employee.
- Payment: Employees must receive their regular salary during their vacation period.
Public Holidays
Cabo Verde observes several public holidays throughout the year. These holidays provide employees with days off to celebrate national events and cultural traditions. The following table lists the public holidays in Cabo Verde for 2025:
| Date | Holiday Name |
|---|---|
| January 1 | New Year's Day |
| January 20 | National Heroes Day |
| March 8 | International Women's Day |
| May 1 | Labour Day |
| July 5 | National Independence Day |
| August 15 | Assumption of Mary |
| September 12 | Nationality Day |
| November 1 | All Saints' Day |
| December 25 | Christmas Day |
Sick Leave
Cabo Verdean labor law provides for sick leave to protect employees who are temporarily unable to work due to illness or injury.
- Entitlement: Employees are entitled to sick leave, provided they submit a medical certificate.
- Duration: The duration of sick leave can vary depending on the employee's condition and the medical assessment.
- Pay: During sick leave, employees are typically entitled to a percentage of their regular salary, often supported by social security. The exact percentage and duration of paid sick leave may be specified in collective agreements or employment contracts.
- Documentation: A medical certificate from a recognized healthcare provider is required to validate the sick leave claim.
Parental Leave
Parental leave in Cabo Verde is designed to support employees in balancing their work and family responsibilities, including maternity, paternity, and adoption leave.
Maternity Leave
- Entitlement: Female employees are entitled to maternity leave.
- Duration: Typically, maternity leave consists of 60 days.
- Pay: During maternity leave, employees usually receive a percentage of their salary, often supported by social security.
- Additional Provisions: Additional leave may be granted in cases of complicated births or multiple births.
Paternity Leave
- Entitlement: Male employees are entitled to paternity leave following the birth of their child.
- Duration: The duration of paternity leave is typically 5 days.
- Pay: Employees usually receive their regular salary during paternity leave.
Adoption Leave
- Entitlement: Employees who adopt a child are entitled to adoption leave.
- Duration: The duration of adoption leave is similar to maternity leave, providing time for the employee to bond with and care for the adopted child.
- Pay: During adoption leave, employees usually receive a percentage of their salary, often supported by social security.
Other Types of Leave
In addition to annual vacation, public holidays, sick leave, and parental leave, Cabo Verdean labor law may provide for other types of leave to accommodate various personal circumstances.
- Bereavement Leave: Employees are typically entitled to bereavement leave in the event of the death of a close family member. The duration of bereavement leave may vary depending on the relationship to the deceased.
- Study Leave: Some employers may offer study leave to employees pursuing further education or professional development. The terms of study leave, including duration and pay, are usually agreed upon between the employer and employee.
- Sabbatical Leave: Sabbatical leave, which is a longer period of leave for personal or professional development, may be granted at the employer's discretion. The terms of sabbatical leave are typically negotiated on a case-by-case basis.
