Learn about mandatory and optional employee benefits in Kiribati
In Kiribati, both public and private sector workers are entitled to certain mandatory employee benefits.
All permanent, contract, and temporary employees in Kiribati are required to be members of the Kiribati Provident Fund (KPF). Employers are required to deduct 7.5% of the employee's salary bi-weekly and contribute a matching 7.5%. Employees can access their KPF contributions upon retirement, emigration, or unemployment under specific conditions.
Public hospitals and health facilities in Kiribati provide free healthcare to all citizens, including employed individuals. This coverage encompasses preventive and primary care, hospitalization, medications, rehabilitation, mental health services, lab tests, medical imaging, and dental care.
In Kiribati, many employers go beyond the mandatory benefits outlined by the Kiribati National Provident Fund (KNPF) to offer additional perks that attract and retain talent. These optional benefits span across various areas such as health and wellness, financial security, work-life balance, and other miscellaneous benefits.
In Kiribati, there is no universal health insurance requirement for all employees. However, there are certain considerations that employers and employees should be aware of.
Employers in Kiribati are obligated to provide Workmen's Compensation Insurance for their employees. This insurance covers work-related injuries and illnesses, including medical expenses and compensation for lost wages.
The government's National Conditions of Service document outlines benefits for public sector employees. However, health insurance is not explicitly mentioned in this document.
The World Bank, in its Kiribati Health Systems Strengthening Project, underscores the significance of health insurance, particularly in the context of COVID-19. This project mandates contractors to provide health insurance for contracted workers, including coverage for COVID-19 and access to medical care. The specific requirements are detailed in the World Bank's Labor Management Procedures document.
While there is no blanket health insurance requirement for employees in Kiribati, the provision of Workmen's Compensation Insurance does offer some coverage for work-related injuries and illnesses. The importance of health insurance is increasingly being recognized, especially in the face of public health emergencies.
In Kiribati, employees have two main retirement income options.
This government program provides a basic monthly stipend to all citizens who reach the retirement age. As of 2018, the benefit is A$50 (around $37 USD) per month for those aged 65 to 69, and A$60 (around $44 USD) per month for those aged 70 or older.
This voluntary, contributory provident fund scheme allows members to save for retirement. Both employers and employees contribute a percentage of the employee's salary to the fund. Employees are eligible to access their accumulated contributions and accrued interest upon reaching retirement age (50 years old) or under specific circumstances like permanent emigration or unemployment.
The KRBF offers a loan program for members with viable business plans, but approval rests with the Ministry of Commerce. Private pension plans may be offered by some employers, but they are not widespread.
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