Economic Overview, Cashew Export Powerhouse & Atlantic Fisheries
Guinea-Bissau combines Lusophone legal traditions with UEMOA Euro-pegged currency stability and world-class raw cashew production.
Key Economic Sectors
- Raw Cashew Nut Agribusiness: One of the world's largest exporters of organic raw cashew nuts.
- Maritime Fisheries & Off-Shore Resources: Rich Atlantic fishing grounds and offshore hydrocarbon exploration.
- International NGOs & Development: Extensive multilateral and bilateral development programs in Bissau.
Employment Contracts, General Labour Law & Probation
Regulated by the Lei Geral do Trabalho (Decree-Law No. 2/86).
- Mandatory Portuguese Contracts: Must be in writing in Portuguese.
- Probation Period: Maximum statutory probation is 30 to 90 days based on professional grade.
Working Hours, Overtime & Rest Periods
- Standard Hours: 40 to 45 hours per week (8 hours/day).
- Overtime: Minimum 150% (50% premium) on normal days; 200% (double time) on Sundays and public holidays.
Annual Leave, Public Holidays & Maternity Protections
- Annual Paid Vacation: Minimum 30 calendar days per continuous year of service.
- Public Holidays: 12 official national public holidays (Christian and Islamic).
- Maternity Leave: 60 to 90 calendar days paid maternity leave via INSS social security.
Social Security (INSS 14%) & IPP Salary Tax
| Statutory Scheme | Employer Share | Employee Share | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Social Security (INSS) | 14.0% | 8.0% | Pensions, sickness, maternity & family benefits (22% total) |
Professional Tax (IPP): Progressive rates from 2% up to 20% withheld monthly at source.
Why Use an Employer of Record (EOR) in Guinea-Bissau
- Immediate Project Team Deployment: Onboard agricultural specialists and NGO officers in Bissau in days.
- INSS & IPP Compliance: Automated management of 14% employer social security and local payroll taxes.
Hiring in Guinea-Bissau? Key Resources
Whether you are evaluating entity setup vs. using an Employer of Record, or looking for the best international payroll solution, our guides give you transparent benchmarks:
