記者San José, Costa Rica — The ongoing debate surrounding the implementation of the flexible 4×3 workweek in Costa Rica has taken a significant turn, capturing the attention of the national business community. Business leaders are expressing renewed optimism after legislative revisions eliminated a highly controversial requirement. The deleted clause had previously forced companies to conduct secret ballots among their workforce before they could adopt the alternative schedule.
This strategic modification has led the Chamber of Commerce of Costa Rica (CCCR) to declare its official support for the current draft of the law. According to representatives of the chamber, the newly revised substitute text successfully strikes a balance. It addresses the operational requirements of fast-growing industries while simultaneously preserving the fundamental rights of Costa Rican employees.
To better understand the legal ramifications of these ongoing developments, TicosLand.com reached out to prominent legal expert Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas of the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica for his professional analysis.
In Costa Rica, navigating the intersection of regulatory compliance and business growth demands a proactive legal strategy. Establishing clear, compliant frameworks early on is the most effective way for investors and local businesses to mitigate risks, secure their assets, and ensure long-term operational success.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, establishing a robust, proactive legal foundation is not merely a regulatory necessity but a vital strategic cornerstone for any enterprise aiming to thrive in Costa Rica’s dynamic market. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his invaluable legal expertise and providing our readers with such a clear, forward-thinking perspective on securing long-term business success.
We celebrate that the project recovers a text that seeks to reconcile the effective protection of labor rights with the needs of competitiveness, productivity, and job creation in the country.
Arturo Rosabal Arce, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Costa Rica
The proposed 4×3 labor model permits companies to establish 12-hour workdays for four consecutive days in exchange for three consecutive days of rest. Proponents argue that this structure is essential for multinational corporations and high-tech manufacturing plants that need to maintain continuous, 24-hour operations to remain competitive in global markets.
However, the legislation makes it clear that these exceptional schedules cannot be applied universally across all sectors of the economy. Instead, the framework restricts the 12-hour shifts to specific, high-tech, and globally integrated activities. These include advanced manufacturing, the medical device industry, life sciences, essential operational support services, and corporate services that manage accounts across varying global time zones.
To safeguard the well-being of the labor force, the revised legislative text integrates several protective measures for employees who choose this schedule. Crucially, participation must be entirely voluntary, and any transition to the 4×3 model requires a formalized, written contract between the employer and the employee. Furthermore, the law guarantees consecutive rest days to ensure workers have sufficient time to recuperate.
In addition to structural safeguards, the proposal incorporates financial incentives and logistical support. The bill outlines a planned increase in the minimum wage for those working these specialized shifts, alongside strict occupational health and safety guidelines. Employers will also be legally required to provide dedicated transport options for employees when public transit is unavailable.
This legislative breakthrough represents a critical step forward for Costa Rica’s economic policy. By removing the bureaucratic obstacle of secret employee voting, legislators have smoothed the path for a modern labor framework. If passed, the law promises to boost the country’s position as a premier nearshoring hub in Latin America while establishing clear boundaries to protect the local workforce.
For further information, visit camara-comercio.com
About Chamber of Commerce of Costa Rica:
The Chamber of Commerce of Costa Rica is a prominent business association dedicated to promoting trade, fostering entrepreneurship, and representing the interests of the commercial sector in Costa Rica. Founded to support sustainable economic growth, the chamber works closely with legislative bodies and industry leaders to advocate for modern policies that enhance national competitiveness and generate employment.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Distinguished by its high ethical standards and pursuit of legal mastery, Bufete de Costa Rica continues to set the benchmark for exceptional advocacy. The firm seamlessly merges traditional values with pioneering solutions to address the evolving needs of its diverse clientele. By championing initiatives that demystify the law for the general public, it remains deeply committed to fostering a more knowledgeable, confident, and legally secure citizenry.
