Published.: March 31, 2026
 

In Costa Rica, Holy Week is one of the most important religious observances of the year. According to Article 148 of the Labor Code, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are mandatory paid national holidays. This means that employees are entitled to these days off with pay, and they may only work if there is a prior agreement with the employer, applying the corresponding compensation conditions.



The remaining days of the week are not official holidays. However, it is common for organizations and employees to arrange the use of vacation days to extend the break and form a full week off, often referred to as a mid-term vacation period. This practice depends on each company’s internal policies and mutual agreement between the parties.



History

  • Historical context:

    Holy Week is a Christian celebration that commemorates the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In Costa Rica, this tradition was introduced during the colonial period and has remained one of the most important religious observances in the country, with strong cultural and social roots.

  • Evolution of the celebration:

    Over time, Holy Week has evolved into a combination of religious, cultural, and social practices. In addition to liturgical activities, many people take advantage of this period for rest, domestic tourism, and family gatherings, making it one of the busiest travel seasons in the country.

  • Traditions and customs:

    Among the most representative traditions are processions, religious ceremonies, liturgical events, and moments of reflection. It is also common for Costa Rican families to engage in recreational activities or travel during the week, balancing the religious significance with rest and leisure.

Labor Legislation:

    Official dates:

    Maundy Thursday (April 2nd, 2026) and Good Friday (April 3rd, 2026).

    Date of observance:

    Observed on their corresponding dates during Holy Week.

    Type of holiday:

    Mandatory paid holidays (Maundy Thursday and Good Friday).

    Law:

    Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are recognized in the Costa Rican Labor Code as mandatory paid holidays. This guarantees employees the right to rest with pay, given the religious and cultural significance of these dates.

Regulations:

"Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are mandatory paid holidays, meaning employees are entitled to these days off with pay regardless of their type of employment contract."

"If employees are required to work on these holidays, they must receive double pay for regular hours worked. Any overtime hours must be compensated at triple rate, in accordance with current labor legislation."

"The remaining days of Holy Week are not mandatory holidays; however, it is common practice for employees to use vacation days to extend the break."

"Employers must respect mandatory holidays, and any waiver of this right is considered null under the provisions of the Labor Code."

Source: Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS) Website www.mtss.go.cr

How can Asicon Consulting support you?

At Asicon Consulting Costa Rica, we support you in the correct application of Holy Week holiday payments, salary calculations, double pay and overtime, as well as proper vacation planning and compliance with current labor regulations.

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Our support includes specialized advisory, process validation, and assistance in managing holidays and vacation planning, enabling companies to operate in an organized, transparent, and legally compliant manner during Holy Week.