On Sunday, February 1, 2026, Costa Rica will hold its Presidential Elections, a civic event that reinforces the country’s longstanding commitment to democracy, citizen participation, and institutional strength, reflecting the values of peace, respect, and the strengthening of the Rule of Law that characterize the Costa Rican nation.
In connection with this electoral process, it is important to consider that labor legislation establishes a series of rights and obligations for both employers and employees, which must be observed to guarantee the free exercise of the right to vote.
Pursuant to Article 69, subsection (j), of the Labor Code, employees are entitled to be absent from work in order to vote, and such time must be paid by the employer. This paid leave also applies to employees who have been duly appointed as members of Polling Stations (Juntas Receptoras de Votos), provided they present the corresponding credentials.
Employers are advised to coordinate voting schedules in advance with their employees in order to maintain proper organization, ensuring both the exercise of the right to vote and the continuity of business operations. Employers must grant a reasonable period of time to allow employees to travel to their polling stations and subsequently return to their workplace.
Employees are reminded that, during the electoral process and within working hours, they must refrain from engaging in political or electoral campaigning, as such conduct is expressly prohibited by the Labor Code.
Failure by employers to comply with the obligations described above may result in financial penalties.