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Employment Regulations in Saint Lucia
Minimum Age:
The minimum age of an employee is sixteen (16).
Working hours, Vacation and Severance:
The average working week is forty hours (8 hours a day, 5 days a week). All monthly paid workers are entitled to two weeks (14 days) vacation leave with pay annually for the first five years, and three weeks (21 days) thereafter. Daily paid workers are entitled to two weeks (14 days) vacation after 150 days of work. All employees are entitled to severance benefits based on specific eligibility requirements.
Wages:
The Government establishes minimum wage rates which varies with the category and type of industry.
National Insurance Scheme (NIS):
The National Insurance Scheme is compulsory and accounts for ten percent (10%) of all wages per annum. The employers pay half of the contribution and the employees pay the other half. The benefits that accrue to members under the scheme include sickness, survivors, retirement, maternity, death, and injury (job).
Work Permits:
For non-St. Lucians intending to conduct business or to undertake employment must apply for a work permit upon arrival in St. Lucia. Work permits are issued usually for one year and can be renewed annually if it can be demonstrated that the position cannot be filled by local personnel with equivalent qualifications. The work permit can be obtained from the Department of Labour Relations. See how to obtain a St. Lucia Work Permit.
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