Tonga EOR & PEO
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As a Global EOR & PEO service provider, we pride ourselves on our global reach, in-country knowledge, and ability to swiftly and efficiently mobilize workers around the world. Our robust EOR/PEO covers everything from global HR, payroll, compliance, in-country support, immigration, visas, and more.
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DID YOU KNOW
- Tonga is the only Pacific island nation that has never been colonised, preserving its monarchical system since the 10th century.
- The Kingdom of Tonga spans 170 islands, but only around 36 are inhabited, offering pristine beaches, volcanic landscapes, and coral reefs.
- Every year, Tonga becomes one of the few places on Earth where you can swim with humpback whales, as they migrate to its warm waters from Antarctica.
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Tonga EOR Services
Streamlining Global Employment in the Pacific
Working in Tonga
Financial Year Dates
Tonga’s financial year runs from July 1st to June 30th of the following year.
Minimum Wage
As of 2025, the national minimum wage in Tonga is T$2.70 per hour. This applies to all employees aged 18 and over across most sectors.
Standard working hours
The standard workweek in Tonga is 40 hours, typically 8 hours per day from Monday to Friday. Work hours are generally between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, with a lunch break.
Overtime
Overtime is generally compensated at 1.5 times the employee’s regular hourly rate. Employment contracts should clearly define the conditions under which overtime applies, including public holiday and weekend work.
Holiday Allowance
Employees in Tonga are entitled to a minimum of 10 working days of paid annual leave after completing 12 months of continuous service. Employers often grant more leave through contract agreements or collective bargaining.
Sick Leave
Employees are entitled to 10 days of paid sick leave per year after a year of continuous employment. Medical certificates may be required for absences of more than two days.
Maternity & Paternity Leave
Maternity leave entitlement in Tonga is 6 weeks before and 6 weeks after childbirth (12 weeks total). Employers must pay 100% of the employee’s salary during this period.
There is currently no statutory paternity leave in Tonga, though employers may choose to provide it as part of internal policy or contract terms.
Public Holiday
Tonga observes several national public holidays, including:
- New Year’s Day
- Good Friday
- Easter Monday
- Emancipation Day
- King’s Birthday
- Constitution Day
- Tupou I Day
- Christmas Day
- Boxing Day
Public holidays may vary slightly based on royal proclamations or cultural observances.
Social Contributions
Tonga’s social security framework is primarily managed through the Retirement Fund Board (RFB), with mandatory pension contributions for formal employees.
Employers:
- Retirement Fund Contribution: 10% of gross salary
Employees:
- Retirement Fund Contribution: 5% of gross salary
Income Tax
Tonga applies a progressive income tax system for individuals:
- Up to T$12,000: 0%
- T$12,001 to T$30,000: 10%
- T$30,001 to T$70,000: 20%
- Over T$70,000: 30%
Residents are taxed on their worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on income derived from Tonga.
Health Care
Tonga operates a publicly funded healthcare system that provides basic medical services to citizens and residents. While healthcare is free or low-cost, the availability of specialist care and modern facilities is limited, particularly on outer islands.
Employers are not legally required to provide private health insurance, but many international companies offer supplementary private coverage to attract and retain skilled employees.
Visas
Foreign nationals intending to work or reside in Tonga must obtain the appropriate visa. Key visa categories include:
Work Permit Visa
Foreign employees must be sponsored by a Tongan employer to obtain a work permit. Permits are usually granted for up to 2 years and require evidence that the position cannot be filled locally.
Investor or Business Visa
Entrepreneurs and investors wishing to establish a business presence in Tonga can apply for this visa, subject to approval by the Ministry of Commerce and relevant regulatory bodies.
Temporary Residence Permit
Available to foreign workers, family members, and dependents for a period aligned with their employment or sponsorship.
Family Reunification
Dependent family members of a legal resident or worker in Tonga may apply for family reunification under certain visa conditions.
13th salary
Tonga does not have a statutory requirement for a 13th salary. However, some employers provide discretionary end-of-year bonuses. These are typically performance-based or given during the Christmas period.
Learn more about 13th salary practices globally: 13th & 14th Salary: The Complete Guide
Cultural Information
Tongan culture, or Anga Fakatonga, is deeply rooted in community, respect for elders, and connection to the royal family. Hierarchical values, traditions, and the central role of the church shape everyday life and business etiquette.
Hospitality is a core element of Tongan life, and social occasions often involve large gatherings, feasts, and ceremonial gift-giving (‘faikava’ and ‘kava’ ceremonies are common).
The country’s rich heritage includes traditional dance (lakalaka), intricate handicrafts such as tapa cloth, and choral singing. It is customary to dress modestly in business and social settings, with respect and politeness highly valued.
By choosing Gibson Watts Global as your Employer of Record (EOR) in Tonga, you gain access to local expertise, streamlined compliance, and efficient workforce management across the Pacific region. Let us take care of the complexities so you can focus on growing your business in this culturally vibrant and strategically located island nation.