IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The deadline for employers to register their current employees in the Unique Registry of Foreign Workers in Colombia (RUTEC) system has been extended.

What does the change mean? Employers must register their foreign employees, employment contracts information and social security affiliation on the RUTEC online portal by March 9. Registration in RUTEC must be completed within 120 calendar days after the date of the labor contract for new employees.

  • Deadline: March 9.
  • Who is affected: Employers who have foreign employees in Colombia.
  • Next steps: Employers must register their foreign employees in the system in accordance with the periods stated above. The Ministry of Labor may impose sanctions of US$260 to US$1.3 million if companies do not comply with the RUTEC registry.

Background: The new registry, which was introduced in October, is a tool for labor authorities to monitor immigrant labor and to ensure that employers are fulfilling all requirements regarding labor contracts, working conditions and social benefits to guarantee the rights of immigrant employees. The ministry extended the deadline for employers to apply due to the low number of foreigners currently registered in the system. The original registration deadline was Feb. 8.

Analysis & Comments: Employers should register existing foreign employees as soon as possible and no later than March 9.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.