Labour and Employment Law in Cameroon

At B Amabo Fuh, ESQ, we provide expert legal counsel and representation in all aspects of labour and employment law in Cameroon. Our experienced team assists employers, employees, and organizations in navigating the complexities of the Cameroon Labour Code (Law No. 92/007 of 14 August 1992, as amended) and related regulations, ensuring full compliance while protecting your rights and interests.

Overview of Labour Law in Cameroon

Cameroon’s labour relations are primarily governed by the Labour Code, which regulates relationships between employers and wage-earners, including apprentices. The law recognizes the right to work as a fundamental right and prohibits forced or compulsory labour.
Key principles include:
• Freedom to negotiate employment terms (subject to minimum legal protections)
• Protection against unfair dismissal
• Non-discrimination in employment
• Social security contributions through the National Social Insurance Fund (CNPS)
• Regulation of working conditions, wages, and termination procedures
As of 2025, the Guaranteed Minimum Wage (GMW) stands at XAF 43,969 per month for employees governed by the Labour Code (subject to periodic review by decree).

Types of Employment Contracts in Cameroon

Cameroonian law recognizes several types of contracts, which must comply with statutory requirements:
• Contracts of Unspecified Duration (most common) — No fixed end date; can be terminated by either party with proper notice.
• Contracts of Specified Duration (fixed-term) — Limited renewals; often convert to unspecified duration after renewal if employment continues.
• Temporary, Seasonal, or Occasional Contracts — For short-term needs (e.g., replacement of absent workers or peak periods); strict limits on duration.
Contracts exceeding three months or involving probation must generally be in writing.

NB. Foreign workers require ministerial endorsement of their contracts and work permits.

Key Employment Rights and Obligations in Cameroon

Working Hours and Rest Periods

Standard working week: 40 hours (typically 8 hours/day). Overtime is regulated with premium pay.

Annual Leave

Employees accrue 1.5 days of paid leave per month of service (2.5 days for minors under 18). Leave is typically taken after one year of service.

Maternity and Related Protections

Pregnant employees are entitled to 14 weeks of maternity leave (starting four weeks before the expected delivery date), which can be extended in cases of complications.
• Employers cannot terminate employment due to pregnancy.
• Pregnant workers may terminate contracts without notice or penalty.
• Paid by the National Social Insurance Fund.

Sick Leave and Other Protections

Up to 6 months suspension for certified illness. Additional protections exist for vulnerable groups, including prohibitions on child labour under age 14 (with limited exceptions).

Termination of Employment in Cameroon

• Unspecified duration contracts require written notice (duration varies by seniority and contract terms).
• Fixed-term contracts end naturally or upon justified cause.
• Unfair or wrongful dismissal entitles employees to damages or reinstatement.
• Economic redundancies require justification and procedure.

Our Services in Labour and Employment Law in Cameroon

We offer comprehensive support, including:

1. Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating employment contracts
2. Advice on compliance with the Labour Code, collective agreements, and social security obligations.
3. Representation in labour disputes, unfair dismissal claims, and conciliation before the Labour Inspectorate
4.  Handling redundancy, restructuring, and workforce transfer
5.  Guidance on the recruitment of foreign workers, work permits, and knowledge transfer requirements (updated in recent finance laws)
6. Workplace policies, internal regulations, and disciplinary procedures
7. Training for HR teams on Cameroonian employment law updates

Why choose B. AMABO FUH, ESQ, for your Labour and employment matters in Cameroon?

With in-depth knowledge of both civil law and common law influences in Cameroon’s bi-jural system, we deliver practical, bilingual solutions tailored to local and international clients.

Our goal is to minimize risks, resolve conflicts efficiently, and foster positive employer-employee relations.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation on your labour and employment law needs in Cameroon.
Note: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Consult our specialists or a specialist for advice specific to your situation.