Kosovo EOR & PEO
Hire in Kosovo without a local entity today
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.
Get started and hire in Kosovo today with Gibson Watts Global.
DID YOU KNOW
- Kosovo declared independence in 2008, making it one of Europe’s youngest countries.
- It is home to the Rugova Canyon, one of the deepest and most beautiful river canyons in Europe.
- Kosovo has a thriving coffee culture, with Pristina boasting one of the highest numbers of cafés per capita in the world.
Forget software,
this is expansion
with a human touch
Kosovo EOR Services
Empowering Expansion in the Heart of the Balkans
Kosovo offers a young, educated, and multilingual workforce, making it a strategic destination for companies looking to expand into Southeast Europe. Its growing technology, manufacturing, and services sectors have made it an emerging hub for international business investment.
However, navigating Kosovo’s employment regulations, payroll systems, and tax obligations can be complex for foreign employers. Partnering with Gibson Watts Global as your Employer of Record (EOR) in Kosovo allows your business to hire, pay, and manage employees quickly and compliantly, without the need to establish a local entity. We handle HR administration, payroll, contracts, and legal compliance so you can focus on growth.
Working in Kosovo
Financial Year Dates
Kosovo’s financial year runs from January 1 to December 31.
Minimum Wage
As of 2025, the government of Kosovo has proposed an increase to EUR 250 per month for all workers, though final adjustments are periodically reviewed.
Standard working hours
The standard workweek in Kosovo is 40 hours, typically divided into five 8-hour days.
Overtime
Overtime work must be paid at 125% of the regular hourly rate and 150% for night, weekend, or public holiday work. Overtime is limited to 20 hours per week or 200 hours per year unless specified in the employment contract.
Holiday Allowance
Employees are entitled to a minimum of 20 working days of paid annual leave per year.
Sick Leave
Employees are entitled to up to 20 days of paid sick leave per year, compensated at 100% of salary by the employer. Longer absences may be covered by the Health Insurance Fund where applicable.
Maternity & Paternity Leave
Maternity Leave: 12 months, with the first 6 months paid at 70% of average salary by the employer. The next 3 months may be compensated by the government at 50% of the national average wage.
Paternity Leave: 2 days of paid leave and up to 2 weeks of unpaid leave within the first 3 months after childbirth.
Public Holidays
Kosovo observes the following national holidays:
- New Year’s Day
- Orthodox Christmas Day
- Independence Day
- Constitution Day
- International Workers’ Day
- Europe Day
- Eid al-Fitr
- Eid al-Adha
- Orthodox Easter Monday
- Catholic Christmas Day
Social Contributions
Kosovo’s social security system includes pension and healthcare contributions shared between employer and employee.
Employer Contributions:
- Pension (mandatory): 5% of gross salary
- Voluntary pension contributions: up to an additional 10%
- Health insurance (proposed, pending legislation): anticipated at around 3%
Employee Contributions:
- Pension (mandatory): 5% of gross salary
- Voluntary pension contributions: up to an additional 10%
Income Tax
Kosovo applies a progressive personal income tax system:
- Up to EUR 960 annually: 0%
- EUR 961–3,000: 4%
- EUR 3,001–5,400: 8%
- Above EUR 5,401: 10%
Non-residents are taxed only on income earned within Kosovo.
Health Care
Kosovo’s healthcare system is publicly funded and provides access to essential medical services. However, many residents and expatriates choose private healthcare for faster access and higher-quality facilities. Employers may offer private health insurance as a benefit to attract skilled talent.
Visas
Foreign nationals from the EU, UK, USA, and several other countries can enter Kosovo visa-free for up to 90 days within a 6-month period. Those planning to work in Kosovo must obtain:
- Work Visa (Type D): For foreign employees with a job offer from a registered Kosovan company, valid for up to one year.
- Temporary Residence Permit: Required for stays exceeding 90 days, renewable annually.
- Business Visa: For investors, entrepreneurs, or individuals conducting business activities.
13th salary?
There is no statutory requirement for a 13th-month salary in Kosovo. However, some employers offer annual performance or holiday bonuses as part of competitive compensation packages.
For more information, see 13th & 14th Salary – The Complete Guide.
Cultural Information
Kosovo’s culture is a blend of Albanian, Ottoman, and Balkan influences, shaped by centuries of history and resilience. Family and community are central to daily life, and hospitality is a defining value – visitors are often offered strong coffee or traditional food such as flija (layered pastry) and burek.
Music and dance play an important role in celebrations, while contemporary art and film are gaining international recognition. Kosovars are known for their optimism, warmth, and entrepreneurial spirit, reflecting the country’s youthful energy and modern ambitions.