Discover everything you need to know about San Marino
Here ares some key facts regarding hiring in San Marino
San Marino, a microstate surrounded by Italy, is one of the smallest countries globally with a 61 square kilometer area. Founded in 301 AD by Saint Marinus, it boasts the title of the world's oldest surviving republic. Despite its size, San Marino has maintained independence throughout history, even during Italy's unification and World War II, where it provided sanctuary to over 100,000 refugees.
The country operates as a parliamentary republic with a prosperous economy driven by tourism, banking, and manufacturing sectors like ceramics and electronics. It uses the Euro and has a customs union with Italy. San Marino's population is around 35,000, primarily Sammarinese and Italian, with Italian as the official language and Roman Catholicism as the predominant religion.
The workforce is aging, similar to other developed nations, which could impact labor availability and social systems. Many workers commute from Italy, reflecting the small domestic workforce size. The economy benefits significantly from tourism, which capitalizes on its historical and cultural heritage, and a strong manufacturing sector in light industry.
Workplace culture in San Marino emphasizes direct communication, respect, and strong interpersonal relationships, with a notable influence from Italian cultural norms. The economy is closely tied to Italy, affecting its economic dynamics. San Marino is also focusing on emerging sectors like technology and sustainable industries, aiming to attract investment and innovation.
Understand what the employment costs are that you have to consider when hiring San Marino
Your step-by-step guide to hiring, compliance, and payroll management in San Marino with EOR solutions.
As an Employer of Record in San Marino, Rivermate is responsible for:
As the company that hires the employee through the Employer of Record, you are responsible for:
Employers in San Marino have various responsibilities regarding social security contributions, including payments towards pensions, healthcare, family allowances, unemployment insurance, and work-related injury insurance. Unlike many countries, San Marino does not have a traditional payroll tax system; instead, employers withhold a 13% tax for certain non-resident foreign workers and contribute to funds like the Employee Severance Fund (TFR) and a general training fund (FondISS).
Employees contribute 8.3% of their salary towards social security, which is the primary tax deduction mechanism in lieu of a separate payroll tax. The social security system supports various social programs, including pensions and healthcare.
San Marino also has a unique tax on imports, the "Imposta Generale sulla Prestazione dei Servizi" (IGPS), similar to VAT, with a standard rate of 17% and reduced rates for specific goods and services. Certain services, like financial services, healthcare, and education, are exempt from IGPS.
For businesses, San Marino offers tax incentives to attract new companies and stimulate economic growth, such as reduced corporate tax rates for new businesses and tax credits for hiring new employees. These incentives include significant reductions in corporate tax rates and exemptions from business license fees, with additional benefits for hiring disadvantaged employees.
Businesses must register for IGPS if involved in importing goods and services, and it's advisable to consult with a tax professional or the San Marino Chamber of Commerce for detailed guidance on tax incentives and filing procedures.
In San Marino, employees are guaranteed a minimum of 20 working days of paid annual leave per year, as per Law No. 7 of February 21, 1961. This entitlement can increase based on collective agreements or individual contracts. The scheduling of vacations typically requires mutual agreement between employer and employee. Additionally, San Marino celebrates numerous public holidays, including New Year's Day, Epiphany, and Christmas, among others. The legal framework also covers other types of leave such as sick leave, maternity and paternity leave, and parental leave, with specifics often detailed in collective agreements or individual contracts.
San Marino provides a robust social safety net through mandatory employee benefits funded by both employer and employee contributions, managed by the National Social Security Institute (INPS). Key mandatory benefits include a pension system, unemployment benefits, and sickness and maternity benefits. The national health system offers free medical care, supplemented by optional private health insurance from some employers for additional coverage like dental and vision care.
Employers in San Marino also offer various optional benefits to enhance health, financial security, work-life balance, and professional development. These include private health insurance, life and disability insurance, flexible working arrangements, childcare assistance, and professional development opportunities.
The public social security system requires contributions from both employers and employees, with eligibility for retirement benefits based on age and contribution years. Additionally, voluntary private retirement plans like Fondiss and employer-sponsored plans are available to supplement the mandatory pension.
Employees should consider their specific health needs, potential cost-sharing benefits, and employer contributions when opting for private health insurance. For retirement, considering tax implications and investment options in private plans can be beneficial to enhance retirement security.
In San Marino, employment termination must be justified by "just cause" related to severe misconduct, or a "justified subjective reason" linked to company needs like economic changes. Employers are required to provide a written explanation for the dismissal. Notice periods for termination vary by employee classification and length of service, as detailed in employment contracts or collective bargaining agreements. Severance pay is generally due unless termination is for just cause, with the amount influenced by factors such as length of service and reason for termination.
San Marino's anti-discrimination laws protect characteristics including race, gender, and religion, among others. The Equal Opportunities Commission and Labor Tribunals provide mechanisms for addressing discrimination complaints. Employers have responsibilities to prevent discrimination through policies, training, and internal complaint procedures, and must accommodate employees with disabilities.
Work conditions in San Marino typically involve a standard 40-hour workweek, Monday to Friday, with expected rest periods and a focus on work-life balance. Although specific ergonomic requirements are not detailed, adherence to ILO conventions suggests a commitment to safe and healthy work environments. Employers must manage workplace risks, provide safety training, and report accidents, while employees have rights to a safe work environment and can refuse unsafe work. The Secretariat of State for Health and Social Security oversees enforcement of these regulations.
San Marino's employment landscape is governed by National Collective Agreements (NCAs) and Individual Employment Contracts. NCAs, negotiated between trade unions and employer associations, set industry-wide standards including minimum wage, working hours, and leave entitlements, and are legally binding. Individual contracts, which must be in Italian, detail specific employment terms such as job description, compensation, and working conditions, building on the NCAs' foundation.
Key components of individual contracts include identification of parties, remuneration, job duties, work schedule, leave policies, and termination details. They also cover confidentiality and intellectual property rights, with specific clauses for dispute resolution. San Marino mandates a probationary period of up to six months in all employment contracts, allowing flexibility in termination during this period. Additionally, contracts often contain confidentiality and non-compete clauses to protect business interests, though their enforceability can vary by jurisdiction.
San Marino is adapting to the trend of remote work, which involves various legal, technological, and employer responsibilities. Although San Marino's labor laws do not specifically mention remote work, existing laws such as Law No. 54/2000 and Decree No. 40/2014 are interpreted to cover remote work scenarios, focusing on employment contracts and workplace safety.
Technologically, San Marino boasts a robust telecommunications infrastructure essential for remote work, emphasizing the need for reliable internet, secure communication tools, and remote access tools. Employers are advised to ensure written agreements for remote work, provide necessary training and equipment, and support a healthy work-life balance.
Flexible work options like part-time work, flexitime, and job sharing are available, though not explicitly detailed in legal texts. Employers and employees typically negotiate these arrangements within the framework of individual employment contracts.
Data protection is a critical aspect, with San Marino adhering to GDPR guidelines. Employers must manage data responsibly, ensuring security measures like encryption and secure access protocols are in place, and employees are aware of their data protection rights.
Overall, the shift to remote work in San Marino requires comprehensive management of legal, technological, and data security considerations to ensure a productive and secure working environment.
San Marino maintains a standard 40-hour workweek, with an 8-hour workday, aligning with typical European standards. Labor regulations are governed by various decrees and agreements, including Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA) and Legislative Decrees, which may specify different working hours for certain sectors.
Overtime Rules:
Breaks and Night/Weekend Work:
Additional Considerations:
Understanding competitive salaries in San Marino is essential for attracting and retaining employees. Factors influencing these salaries include job title, education, experience, industry, and company size. The cost of living and benefits like health insurance and paid time off also play significant roles. San Marino's minimum wage is €9.24 per hour or €1,501.49 per month, unchanged since 2007. Employers often offer additional benefits such as paid annual leave, maternity leave, and sick leave. Common bonuses include performance-based incentives and allowances for meals and transportation. Payment practices vary, with monthly bank transfers being most common, and employers must provide detailed payslips with each payment.
In San Marino, employment termination and severance pay are governed by specific legal frameworks, primarily focusing on notice periods and severance pay entitlements.
Notice Periods:
Severance Pay:
Termination Procedures:
These regulations ensure both parties engage in fair and legally compliant termination practices, safeguarding the rights and obligations of employees and employers in San Marino.
In San Marino, the distinction between employees and independent contractors is primarily based on control, integration, remuneration, social security, dependence, and risk. Employees work under the employer's control and direction, receive a fixed salary, and have statutory social security contributions. Independent contractors, however, operate autonomously, are paid per project, and handle their own social security contributions.
Key considerations for independent contractors include:
Contract Structures: It's crucial to have a written agreement that clearly outlines the scope of work, deliverables, payment terms, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Local legal templates can be useful.
Negotiation Practices: Contractors should leverage their skills and market research to negotiate effectively. Transparent communication about project details is essential for a successful partnership.
Common Industries: Independent contractors are prevalent in IT, creative services, consulting, tourism, construction, and more.
Intellectual Property (IP): Generally, the creator owns the IP unless the contract specifies otherwise. Contractors retain moral rights even if the IP ownership is transferred to the client.
Tax and Insurance: Independent contractors must register as self-employed, file annual tax returns, and make their own social security contributions. While insurance isn't mandatory, options like General Liability Insurance and Professional Indemnity Insurance are recommended.
Understanding these aspects is crucial for navigating the legal and practical landscapes of freelancing in San Marino.
San Marino's Law on Hygiene and Health in the Workplace, established by Decree no. 31 of 1998, mandates employers to ensure the health and safety of their workforce. Employers are required to assess risks, implement preventive measures, and provide safety training and information. The law covers various workplace hazards, including physical, chemical, ergonomic, and psychosocial risks, and offers special protections for vulnerable groups such as pregnant workers, young workers, and those with disabilities.
Employers are also responsible for reporting and investigating workplace incidents and ensuring compliance with safety regulations through measures like health surveillance, provision of personal protective equipment, and maintaining safe work equipment. The Occupational Health and Safety Unit within the San Marino Institute for Social Security enforces these regulations, conducting inspections and imposing penalties for non-compliance.
Workplace inspections are crucial for identifying hazards, verifying risk mitigation, and collecting data to inform policy. These inspections can lead to improvement notices and penalties for serious violations. Additionally, in the event of workplace accidents, employers must report and investigate the incidents, with injured workers entitled to compensation through a compulsory work injury insurance scheme.
San Marino handles employment and labor disputes through its Civil Court, led by a Commissioner of the Law, covering issues from individual employment contracts to social security. The court encourages conciliation before moving to formal hearings if necessary. Arbitration is also available as an alternative dispute resolution, requiring a written agreement and can be less formal than court proceedings but still adheres to due process.
The legal framework for labor disputes and arbitration in San Marino is primarily based on the Code of Civil Procedure, and while specific English resources on San Marino's laws are limited, the country aligns with international labor standards through various ILO conventions and the European Social Charter. These international commitments influence domestic laws, ensuring protections like freedom of association, collective bargaining rights, and non-discrimination in the workplace.
San Marino also places importance on compliance audits and inspections across various sectors to adhere to both local and international standards, which are crucial for maintaining community trust and international relations. The country has established whistleblower protections under Law No. 80 of 2013, which safeguards against retaliation and ensures confidentiality, encouraging both internal and external reporting of wrongdoing.
Overall, San Marino demonstrates a structured approach to managing labor relations, compliance, and whistleblower protections, reflecting its commitment to upholding both national and international labor standards.
San Marino's business communication is characterized by indirectness, formality, and the importance of non-verbal cues. The culture values politeness and diplomacy, with a low assertiveness index suggesting a preference for relationship-building and avoiding confrontation. Formal interactions are common, especially in larger corporations, with a respectful use of titles and appropriate business attire. Non-verbal communication, such as eye contact and gestures, plays a crucial role in building rapport, while silence is used reflectively.
Negotiations in San Marino emphasize relationship-building and a win-win approach, often involving lengthy discussions to reach consensus. The business environment is hierarchical, with decision-making typically following a top-down approach and limited employee participation. Leadership tends to be directive, focusing on clear instructions and maintaining relationships.
Public holidays, deeply rooted in cultural and religious significance, impact business operations significantly, with most businesses closing or reducing hours. These observances, along with regional customs like the Bread Festival and the San Marino Motorcycle Grand Prix, also influence local business activities.
Frequently Asked Questions for Employer of Record services in San Marino
Setting up a company in San Marino involves several steps, and the timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the business and the efficiency of the processes. Here is a general outline of the timeline for setting up a company in San Marino:
Business Plan and Feasibility Study (1-2 weeks):
Legal Structure and Documentation (1-2 weeks):
Notarization and Registration (2-3 weeks):
Tax Registration (1-2 weeks):
Social Security and Employment Registration (1-2 weeks):
Opening a Bank Account (1-2 weeks):
Business Licenses and Permits (2-4 weeks):
Operational Setup (2-4 weeks):
Overall, the timeline for setting up a company in San Marino can range from approximately 2 to 3 months, depending on the efficiency of the processes and the specific requirements of the business. Engaging with local experts, such as legal advisors and business consultants, can help streamline the process and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.
When using an Employer of Record (EOR) like Rivermate in San Marino, the EOR handles the filing and payment of employees' taxes and social insurance contributions. This includes ensuring compliance with local tax laws and regulations, calculating the appropriate amounts for income tax, social security, and other mandatory contributions, and submitting these payments to the relevant San Marino authorities on behalf of the employer. By managing these responsibilities, the EOR helps businesses maintain compliance and reduces the administrative burden associated with employing staff in San Marino.
Yes, it is possible to hire independent contractors in San Marino. However, there are several important considerations to keep in mind when doing so:
Legal Framework: San Marino has specific regulations governing the engagement of independent contractors. It is crucial to ensure that the contractual relationship is clearly defined to avoid any misclassification issues. Independent contractors should have a high degree of autonomy and control over how they perform their work.
Contractual Agreement: A well-drafted contract is essential. This contract should outline the scope of work, payment terms, duration of the engagement, and any other relevant terms. It should also specify that the contractor is not an employee and is responsible for their own taxes and social security contributions.
Taxation: Independent contractors in San Marino are responsible for managing their own tax obligations. This includes income tax and any applicable social security contributions. Employers should ensure that contractors are aware of their tax responsibilities to avoid any legal complications.
Compliance: Employers must ensure that they comply with all local labor laws and regulations when engaging independent contractors. This includes respecting working conditions, payment terms, and any other statutory requirements.
Benefits of Using an Employer of Record (EOR): Engaging an Employer of Record (EOR) like Rivermate can simplify the process of hiring independent contractors in San Marino. An EOR can handle all compliance-related issues, including drafting compliant contracts, managing payments, and ensuring that all tax and social security obligations are met. This allows businesses to focus on their core activities while minimizing the risk of legal complications.
In summary, while it is possible to hire independent contractors in San Marino, it is essential to navigate the legal and regulatory landscape carefully. Using an EOR service can provide peace of mind and ensure compliance with local laws.
Employing someone in San Marino involves several costs that employers need to consider. These costs can be broadly categorized into direct compensation, social security contributions, and other statutory benefits. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Gross Salary: This is the base salary agreed upon between the employer and the employee. The gross salary is subject to income tax and social security contributions.
Social Security Contributions: Both employers and employees in San Marino are required to make contributions to the social security system. The contributions cover various benefits such as pensions, healthcare, and unemployment insurance. Employers typically contribute around 24% to 30% of the employee's gross salary, while employees contribute approximately 9% to 10%.
Income Tax: Employees in San Marino are subject to progressive income tax rates. While this is a cost borne by the employee, employers often need to handle the withholding and remittance of these taxes. The rates can range from 12% to 50%, depending on the income level.
Severance Pay: In San Marino, employees are entitled to severance pay upon termination of employment. The amount depends on the length of service and the reason for termination. This can be a significant cost, especially for long-term employees.
Mandatory Benefits: Employers must provide certain mandatory benefits, including paid annual leave, sick leave, maternity/paternity leave, and public holidays. These benefits are typically stipulated by law and collective bargaining agreements.
Occupational Health and Safety: Employers are responsible for ensuring a safe working environment. This may involve costs related to compliance with health and safety regulations, training, and equipment.
Administrative Costs: Managing payroll, tax compliance, and other HR functions can incur administrative costs. These include the costs of software, professional services, and internal HR personnel.
Training and Development: While not mandatory, investing in employee training and development can be a significant cost. However, it is often necessary to ensure that employees have the skills required to perform their jobs effectively.
Using an Employer of Record (EOR) like Rivermate can help manage these costs more efficiently. An EOR handles all aspects of employment, including payroll, tax compliance, and benefits administration, allowing companies to focus on their core business activities. This can lead to cost savings, reduced administrative burden, and compliance with local employment laws.
In San Marino, employers have several options for hiring workers, each with its own set of legal and administrative requirements. Here are the primary methods:
Direct Employment:
Temporary Employment Agencies:
Freelancers and Independent Contractors:
Employer of Record (EOR) Services:
Simplified Compliance:
Cost-Effective:
Speed and Efficiency:
Focus on Core Business:
Local Expertise:
In summary, while direct employment, temporary agencies, and freelancers are viable options for hiring in San Marino, using an Employer of Record like Rivermate offers significant advantages in terms of compliance, cost savings, efficiency, and local expertise. This makes it an attractive option for companies looking to expand their workforce in San Marino without the complexities of establishing a local entity.
HR compliance in San Marino involves adhering to the local labor laws, regulations, and standards that govern employment practices within the country. This includes ensuring that employment contracts, payroll, benefits, working conditions, and termination procedures comply with the legal requirements set forth by San Marino's government. Key aspects of HR compliance in San Marino include:
Employment Contracts: Ensuring that all employment contracts are in line with local laws, including clear terms of employment, job descriptions, compensation, and duration of employment.
Payroll and Taxation: Accurate calculation and timely payment of wages, as well as proper withholding and remittance of taxes and social security contributions.
Working Hours and Overtime: Adhering to regulations regarding standard working hours, overtime pay, and rest periods.
Employee Benefits: Providing mandatory benefits such as health insurance, pension contributions, and other statutory benefits.
Health and Safety: Ensuring a safe working environment in compliance with local occupational health and safety regulations.
Termination and Severance: Following legal procedures for employee termination, including notice periods, severance pay, and documentation.
Anti-Discrimination Laws: Complying with laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, and other protected characteristics.
HR compliance is crucial in San Marino for several reasons:
Legal Protection: Compliance helps protect the company from legal disputes and potential lawsuits related to employment practices. Non-compliance can result in significant fines, penalties, and damage to the company's reputation.
Employee Trust and Morale: Adhering to local labor laws fosters a positive work environment, which can enhance employee trust, satisfaction, and morale. This, in turn, can lead to higher productivity and lower turnover rates.
Reputation Management: Companies that are known for complying with local labor laws are more likely to attract top talent and maintain a positive reputation in the market.
Operational Efficiency: Proper HR compliance ensures smooth and efficient business operations, as it minimizes the risk of disruptions caused by legal issues or employee dissatisfaction.
Global Expansion: For multinational companies, understanding and complying with local HR regulations is essential for successful global expansion. It ensures that the company can operate legally and effectively in different jurisdictions.
Using an Employer of Record (EOR) like Rivermate can significantly simplify HR compliance in San Marino. An EOR takes on the responsibility of managing HR functions, ensuring that all employment practices are in line with local laws. This allows companies to focus on their core business activities while mitigating the risks associated with non-compliance. Rivermate's expertise in local labor laws and regulations ensures that all HR processes are handled accurately and efficiently, providing peace of mind for employers.
Yes, employees in San Marino receive all their rights and benefits when employed through an Employer of Record (EOR) like Rivermate. An EOR ensures compliance with local labor laws and regulations, which is crucial in a country like San Marino with its specific legal framework.
Here are the key benefits and rights that employees can expect:
Legal Compliance: An EOR ensures that all employment contracts and practices comply with San Marino's labor laws. This includes adherence to working hours, minimum wage requirements, and termination procedures.
Social Security and Benefits: Employees are enrolled in the local social security system, which covers health insurance, pensions, and other social benefits. The EOR handles all necessary contributions and ensures that employees receive these entitlements.
Paid Leave: Employees are entitled to paid leave, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays, as stipulated by San Marino's labor laws. The EOR manages these entitlements and ensures that employees can take their leave as required.
Tax Compliance: The EOR manages payroll and ensures that all taxes are correctly withheld and paid to the appropriate authorities. This includes income tax and any other applicable local taxes.
Workplace Safety: An EOR ensures that the workplace complies with local health and safety regulations, providing a safe working environment for employees.
Employee Protections: Employees are protected under San Marino's labor laws, which include provisions against unfair dismissal, discrimination, and other workplace issues. The EOR ensures that these protections are upheld.
By using an EOR like Rivermate, companies can be confident that their employees in San Marino are receiving all the rights and benefits they are entitled to under local law. This not only helps in maintaining employee satisfaction and retention but also mitigates legal risks for the employer.
Rivermate, as an Employer of Record (EOR) in San Marino, ensures HR compliance through several key strategies and practices tailored to the unique legal and regulatory environment of the country. Here’s how Rivermate achieves this:
Local Expertise and Knowledge: Rivermate employs local HR and legal experts who are well-versed in San Marino’s labor laws, tax regulations, and employment standards. This local expertise ensures that all HR practices are compliant with the latest legal requirements and any changes in legislation.
Employment Contracts: Rivermate ensures that employment contracts are drafted in accordance with San Marino’s legal requirements. This includes adhering to mandatory clauses, such as those related to working hours, wages, benefits, termination conditions, and employee rights. These contracts are regularly reviewed and updated to remain compliant with any legal changes.
Payroll Management: Rivermate handles payroll processing in strict compliance with San Marino’s tax laws and social security regulations. This includes accurate calculation and timely payment of salaries, taxes, and social contributions. Rivermate ensures that all deductions and contributions are correctly calculated and remitted to the appropriate authorities.
Tax Compliance: Rivermate manages all aspects of tax compliance, including the filing of necessary tax returns and ensuring that both employer and employee taxes are correctly handled. This minimizes the risk of penalties and ensures that all tax obligations are met.
Employee Benefits Administration: Rivermate administers employee benefits in line with San Marino’s statutory requirements. This includes managing health insurance, pension contributions, and any other mandatory benefits. Rivermate also ensures that any additional benefits offered by the employer are compliant with local laws.
Labor Law Adherence: Rivermate ensures adherence to San Marino’s labor laws, including regulations on working hours, overtime, leave entitlements, and occupational health and safety standards. This helps in maintaining a compliant and safe working environment for employees.
Termination and Severance: Rivermate manages the termination process in compliance with San Marino’s legal requirements, ensuring that any terminations are handled fairly and legally. This includes calculating and disbursing any severance pay or other entitlements due to the employee upon termination.
Regular Audits and Compliance Checks: Rivermate conducts regular audits and compliance checks to ensure ongoing adherence to all relevant laws and regulations. This proactive approach helps in identifying and addressing any potential compliance issues before they become problematic.
Employee Relations and Dispute Resolution: Rivermate provides support in managing employee relations and resolving disputes in accordance with San Marino’s legal framework. This includes mediation and ensuring that any disciplinary actions are conducted fairly and legally.
By leveraging these strategies, Rivermate ensures comprehensive HR compliance for companies operating in San Marino, allowing them to focus on their core business activities while mitigating the risks associated with non-compliance.
When a company uses an Employer of Record (EOR) service like Rivermate in San Marino, several legal responsibilities are managed by the EOR, simplifying the process for the company. Here are the key legal responsibilities and how they are handled:
Employment Contracts:
Payroll and Tax Compliance:
Employee Benefits:
Labor Law Compliance:
Termination and Severance:
Record Keeping and Reporting:
By using an EOR like Rivermate in San Marino, companies can significantly reduce their administrative burden and mitigate the risks associated with non-compliance. The EOR takes on the complex legal responsibilities, allowing the company to focus on its core business activities while ensuring that all employment-related obligations are met in accordance with local laws.
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