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Are You Complying with Colombia’s Workwear Provision Requirement?
In Colombia, providing proper footwear and work clothing isn’t an optional benefit or a goodwill gesture — it’s a legal obligation for employers.
And while many companies are aware of this, there are still common questions about who qualifies, when it must be provided, and what happens if you don’t comply.
If you’re an employer, this article is for you. We’ll explain everything you need to know about this mandatory employment provision — clearly and simply.
What Exactly Is the Workwear Provision?
Workwear provision means providing your employees, free of charge, with one pair of shoes and a set of work-appropriate clothing.
This must be done three times a year:
🗓 April 30, August 31, and December 20.
What Exactly Is the Workwear Provision?
Employers are legally required to provide workwear to employees who:
- Have worked continuously for at least three months, and
- Earn up to two monthly minimum wages.
Does This Apply to Part-Time or Occasional Workers?
Yes. Colombian law does not distinguish between full-time or part-time contracts.
As long as the worker earns no more than two minimum monthly salaries and has been employed for over three months, you must provide the workwear — even if they only work a few days a week.
Can I Just Give Them Money Instead?
No. The law strictly prohibits replacing the workwear provision with cash.
However, you may offer vouchers or gift cards redeemable at workwear stores — these are allowed since they are not considered direct cash payments.
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Failing to provide the mandatory workwear can lead to legal consequences:
- Administrative sanctions
- Labor lawsuits
- A loss of trust and motivation within your team
Complying with this requirement shows you value your team’s safety and wellbeing — and that you respect Colombian labor law.
Why Is It So Important?
Fulfilling your workwear obligation:
- Strengthens trust and loyalty among your staff
- Contributes to a safer, more professional work environment
- Protects your company from legal and financial risks
Providing workwear isn’t just a legal duty — it’s an investment in your company’s culture and people.
Make sure you meet the deadlines and fulfill this responsibility without exceptions.
This small step helps keep your team safe, motivated, and legally protected.
At Nexo Legal, we offer tailored legal guidance to help your company stay fully compliant with Colombian labor law.
We help you avoid penalties, protect your business, and build a workplace culture based on care and responsibility.
Get in touch with us today — let’s talk about how we can support your team.
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After submitting the form, your case undergoes a comprehensive review by our team of specialist to assess its viability. Providing clear and concise information about your objectives accelerates this process.
Subsequently, a specialist will be assigned to your case, reaching out to you within a day to clear up details about your case and outline the next steps to help you achieve your goals.
Get started with a free case assessment
What will happen after you fill out this form?
After submitting the form, your case undergoes a comprehensive review by our team of specialist to assess its viability. Providing clear and concise information about your objectives accelerates this process.
Subsequently, a specialist will be assigned to your case, reaching out to you within a day to clear up details about your case and outline the next steps to help you achieve your goals.