El Salvador Vacation Calculator 2026
Last updated: January 2026
Vacation in El Salvador for 2026 grants 15 calendar days of paid leave per year of continuous service, according to the Labor Code. Additionally, workers receive a 30% vacation bonus (prima vacacional) calculated on the 15 days of salary. The right to vacation arises after completing 200 days of continuous work in the same year. Vacation must be taken within 4 months after earning the right. If employment ends before taking vacation, the employer must pay compensated vacation. The daily salary for vacation is calculated by dividing the monthly salary by 30. In USD: for a $600 monthly salary, vacation pay = ($600 ÷ 30) × 15 = $300, plus 30% bonus = $90, total vacation compensation = $390.
FAQ
How many vacation days do you get in El Salvador?
El Salvador grants 15 calendar days of paid vacation per year of continuous service. Unlike some countries where vacation days increase with tenure, El Salvador's vacation period is fixed at 15 days regardless of years worked.
What is the vacation bonus in El Salvador?
The vacation bonus (prima vacacional) is 30% of the 15 days of vacation salary. For example, if your daily salary is $20 (monthly $600), vacation pay is $300 (15 × $20) plus $90 bonus (30%), totaling $390. This bonus is paid in addition to the regular vacation salary.
When do you earn the right to vacation in El Salvador?
Workers earn vacation after completing 200 days of continuous work within the same calendar year. Vacation must be taken within 4 months after earning the right. The employer determines the start date within this 4-month window.
Is vacation pay taxable in El Salvador?
Yes. Vacation pay and the 30% vacation bonus are subject to ISR (income tax) as regular employment income. ISSS and AFP deductions also apply to vacation pay. However, compensated vacation paid at termination has different treatment.
Can unused vacation be paid in cash in El Salvador?
Under the Labor Code, vacation should be taken as time off — it cannot be replaced by cash payment during active employment. However, if the employment relationship ends and the worker has earned but untaken vacation, the employer must pay compensated vacation including the 30% bonus.