Updated August 8th 2024

All About Hiring Employees in Costa Rica

Get the information you need to hire in Costa Rica. Learn how Justworks EOR can help you streamline international hiring and manage employees abroad.

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The Benefits of an EOR for Hiring in Costa Rica

Hiring compliantly in Costa Rica can be tough for busy employers. Simplify the process with Justworks global EOR service. Justworks handles local HR tasks, from payroll to benefits, to keep you compliant with Costa Rican labor laws. Our local experts provide essential insights for managing employees. With clear pricing, start with one employee and scale as you grow.

Options for Hiring in Costa Rica

Opening Up an Entity

Setting up an entity in Costa Rica usually takes months since it requires a nuanced understanding of local labor laws. 

You’ll need to: 

  • Set up a local branch with a local bank account

  • Register with local institutions 

  • Maintain a presence in the country

  • Find law partners 

  • Hire an accounting firm to run payroll 

  • Hire an internal HR team

Setting up an entity can seem daunting, so many businesses partner with a global EOR service to save time and money on local entity setup.

Protections Against Discrimination 

In Costa Rica, discrimination based on gender, age, disability, religion, political opinion, nationality, sexual orientation, and other protected traits is prohibited by law. Employers must ensure a safe, discrimination-free workplace, and employees can file complaints or take legal action if they face discrimination on the job.

Drafting Employment Agreements

While not mandatory, employment agreements in Costa Rica are customary and encouraged to protect the working relationship. Employment contracts should include language about the employer and employee, duration of employment (fixed or indefinite), work schedule, salary, place of employment and duties, and other terms the employer and employee have agreed to.

Ready to Hire Confidently in Costa Rica?

Justworks EOR makes building your global team seamless by helping you hire and onboard talent in Costa Rica and beyond. Save yourself the time and hassle of international hiring today.

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