Social Security for Domestic Workers in Costa Rica: A Recognized Right
Domestic work is the backbone of many households in Costa Rica, yet historically, this essential sector has faced severe challenges in securing fair labor practices and social protection. In response to these longstanding gaps, Costa Rica implemented the Regulation for the Registration of Employers and Contributory Social Security for Domestic Workers, mandating that employers enroll their domestic workers in the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) within eight business days of starting employment. This regulation opens the door for over 170,000 domestic workers to access healthcare, retirement benefits, and paid leave—services that are fundamental to their well-being and security.
The system is structured so that domestic workers contribute around 9.17% of their salary toward social security, while employers contribute roughly 24.17%. This shared responsibility grants workers access to benefits like healthcare, pensions, and two weeks of paid vacation per year, along with an annual Christmas bonus or aguinaldo, which equals a full month’s salary. These protections apply to all domestic workers, regardless of whether they’re full-time or part-time, ensuring a basic level of security for everyone in the profession.
Yet, despite these positive strides, gaps remain. Approximately 25% of domestic workers are still without coverage, often due to the high rate of informal employment or employers’ reluctance to comply with the regulations. For undocumented migrants, who make up a significant portion of the domestic workforce, these gaps widen. Their immigration status can lead to hesitation from employers in formalizing contracts, further restricting their access to social security and other essential protections. This lack of coverage has profound consequences, leaving undocumented workers without healthcare or retirement security and reinforcing cycles of poverty and vulnerability.
While the CCSS is actively working to close these gaps through education and, where needed, legal action, Costa Rica’s current approach aligns with the ILO Domestic Workers Convention No. 189. Ratified in 2011, this convention mandates equal labor rights and social security access for domestic workers. However, we need a more inclusive strategy that takes into account the unique challenges faced by undocumented workers. Ensuring that all domestic workers, regardless of immigration status, have access to social security would not only provide essential protection to these individuals but would also contribute to a fairer, more equitable society in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica has made important strides, yet there’s still a long way to go to protect our most vulnerable. A truly inclusive social security framework means addressing these gaps, advocating for all workers, and building a future where every person can access the rights and protections they deserve.
