El Salvador Labor Ministry Enforces Double Pay for Work on Public Holidays

El Salvador's Ministry of Labor clarified that employees who work on a public holiday must receive full salary plus an equal surcharge, effectively double pay, as mandated by article 192 of the Labor Code. The payment must be made at 100 % of the regular wage and cannot be offset by granting another day off. Work on a holiday is only permissible through mutual agreement between employer and employee.

Minister of Labor and Social Welfare Rolando Castro announced a deployment of 700 labor inspectors across the country's 14 departments to verify compliance during the vacation period. The ministry warned it will act firmly against any violations, including failure to pay the required double salary or withholding tips. The August public holidays in El Salvador are scheduled for the 3rd, 5th, and 6th of the month.