Argentine employment law

Argentina’s labour laws are remarkably comprehensive and regulate virtually all the terms and conditions of the employment relationship. Labour laws are public policy and are therefore mandatory. The employer is obligated to grant employees at least what is afforded to them under labour legislation. Hence, an employer can extend benefits on top of the standard provisions, but cannot agree to terms that are less favourable or otherwise detrimental to an employee, nor can an employee waive any known right or privilege established for his/her protection or benefit under the law.

Key Points

• Argentina’s labour laws are pro-employee and have been designed to safeguard the rights of employees and workers, by instituting rules governing working conditions and working hours, providing for payment of salaries during illnesses, setting surcharges on salaries for overtime, establishing annual vacations and requiring the payment of severance compensation in the event of unfair dismissal (dismissal without justified cause).
• Labour law in Argentina is comprised of public order provisions and thus cannot be ruled out, or waived by any agreement, applicable law or jurisdictional clauses subsequently included in any agreements. Accordingly, Argentina’s labour laws will apply– and the labour courts will have jurisdiction– with respect to any eventual labour claim filed with the courts related to work performed in Argentina.
• Employees are entitled to a 13th salary or statutory annual bonus, called “aguinaldo” or “sueldo annual complementario/SAC”, which is payable in two semi-annual installments, to be paid on 30 June and 18 December. Each installment is equal to 50% of the highest monthly salary accrued during the corresponding semester.
• Employers must pay a compulsory life insurance for all employees. an alliance of employers’ counsel worldwide
• The employer can only change the terms and conditions of employment, provided that those changes are not unreasonable and do not either:
  • modify the essential terms of the employment contract; or
  • cause moral or material damage to the employee.

Are you seeking an international employment lawyer in Argentina?

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By partnering with an L&E Global employment lawyer, you gain:

• Specialized expertise in employment, labour, and workplace safety regulations.
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Contact an L&E Global member law firm today to ensure your business benefits from top-tier employment law counsel in Argentina. Your workforce deserves the best.