The Government of Guatemala, through Governmental Agreement No. 256-2025, approved an increase to the minimum wage, which entered into force on January 1, 2026, and is mandatory for all employers as of that date.
The adjustment applies to all economic activities, with differentiated increases by sector:
- 5.5%: Agricultural
- 7.5%: Non-agricultural
- 4%: Export and maquila
As a result of this increase, and depending on the economic activity and the economic district, the updated monthly minimum wages are as follows:
Economic District 1 (Guatemala Department)
- Agricultural: Q4,041.20
- Non-agricultural: Q4,252.28
- Export and maquila: Q3,659.73
Economic District 2 (All other departments)
- Agricultural: Q3,875.89
- Non-agricultural: Q4,066.90
- Export and maquila: Q3,471.10
*Export and Maquila Regime: entities duly classified under Decree No. 29-89 may be subject to this minimum wage.
Timely compliance with the new minimum wage and its proper payroll registration constitutes a legal obligation, subject to inspections by the Ministry of Labor. Non-compliance may result in administrative sanctions ranging from 8 to 18 current minimum wages, as well as labor claims filed by employees.
Recommended actions
- Implement the payroll adjustment as of January 1, 2026.
- Update employment contracts, payroll records, and payment systems.
- Properly document salaries and bonuses.
- Assess the financial impact of the adjustment on labor costs.