Employee Benefits in Gabon

Bonuses and additional payments

In Gabon, there is no legal obligation for employers to provide annual bonuses. However, it is common practice, especially among larger companies or those in competitive sectors, to offer bonuses or additional allowances to employees. These bonuses are typically outlined in employment contracts or company policies and are disbursed according to the specified terms.

Annual leave

Employees in Gabon are entitled to paid vacation leave after completing one year of service. The statutory entitlement is 24 working days per year, with potential increases based on age, seniority, or family situation. This leave is fully paid and can be taken throughout the leave year, as agreed between employer and employee. 

Additional leave may be offered as part of an employment contract, though it is not required by law. Many employers offer enhanced leave policies to stay competitive and improve retention. 

Unused statutory leave must be taken within the prescribed period after it is earned, depending on the employer’s policy or collective agreements. Payment in lieu of unused leave is only permitted upon termination of employment.

Sick leave

In Gabon, employees are entitled to paid sick leave in case of illness or injury, provided they present a medical certificate. The duration of paid sick leave depends on the employee’s length of service. For employees with less than two years of service, paid sick leave is typically limited to one month. For employees with two or more years of service, paid sick leave can extend up to six months.

Parental leave

Employers must provide 14 weeks of paid maternity leave, typically consisting of six weeks before and eight weeks after childbirth, for each pregnancy. Pregnant employees who have been employed for at least one year are eligible for full pay during maternity leave, funded by social security; those employed for less than one year may receive reduced benefits. Written notice and medical documentation are required to be submitted to the employer confirming the pregnancy and expected delivery date.

Additional benefits

In addition to the above, employers are legally required to provide these benefits under Gabonese labor laws: 

• National Social Security Fund (CNSS): Employers contribute 20.1% of the employee’s gross salary to the CNSS, while employees contribute 2.5%. This fund provides retirement, disability, survivor benefits, family allowances, and occupational risk coverage.
• Family allowances: Employers contribute 8% of the employee’s gross salary to fund family allowances, providing financial support for employees with dependents.
• Occupational risk insurance: Employers contribute between 1% and 6% of the employee’s gross salary, depending on the industry risk level, to cover work-related accidents and occupational diseases.   

Free public healthcare is available to all Gabonese citizens, but many employees still rely on private healthcare providers for faster service. Employers cover a large portion of mandatory benefits, but we can consult with you about optional supplemental coverage options, such as private health insurance or additional pension contributions. As your employer of record in Gabon, we may be able to offer cost-effective access to group health and wellness programs.