Recent developments in Costa Rica
Local and international employment law is always changing. Thankfully, we keep a close eye on the latest developments, so you don’t have to. Read on to find out what’s been happening in Costa Rica.
Minimum wage increase (2025)
As of 1 January 2025, the National Wage Council implemented a mandatory general minimum wage increase of 2.37% for the private sector. Domestic workers received a total increase of more than 4.7%, while highly complex occupations obtained a total increase of around 2.9%.
Regulation of remote work from abroad (2025)
On 6 June 2025, the Legislative Assembly approved Law No. 23.528, amending the Telework Law No. 9738. The reform clarifies that remote work may be performed both inside and outside Costa Rica, provided there is mutual agreement between the parties. Employers must ensure extraterritorial occupational risk insurance coverage and provide the necessary technological equipment.
New requirements for workplace breastfeeding spaces (2025)
Published on 2 July 2025 in the Official Gazette under Executive Decree No. 44943-MTSS-S, the regulation sets minimum standards for workplace breastfeeding rooms, including hygiene, safety, privacy, and accessibility. Such spaces may not be located in bathrooms or unsuitable storage areas. Employers have 12 months from July 2025 to adapt facilities and register them with the Ministry of Labour. Non-compliance may result in fines ranging from 8 to 23 base salaries (approx. CRC 258,376.22 per base salary).
Protection of maternity leave rights in same-sex couples (2025)
In February 2025, the Constitutional Court recognised the right to co-maternity in same-sex couples, granting the non-gestational mother four weeks of maternity leave. At the time of reporting, this ruling had not yet been officially published in the Official Gazette.
Union rights and collective bargaining concerns (2025)
On 16 August 2025, reports highlighted ongoing challenges regarding union freedoms. While the law guarantees the right to form unions, bargain collectively, and strike under certain restrictions, enforcement remains inconsistent. Authorities have been criticised for delays in registering collective agreements, and some employers reportedly promote parallel worker associations to weaken independent unions.
