What is EPS in Colombia and how does it work for Employees?

When hiring employees in Colombia, it’s important to understand the country's mandatory public health insurance system — EPS (Entidad Promotora de Salud). As part of the SGSSS (Sistema General de Seguridad Social en Salud), EPS ensures all formal workers have access to essential medical care and public health services.


What Is EPS?

EPS is Colombia’s national health insurance, required by law for all formally employed individuals. It provides access to general and specialized medical care, medications, emergency treatment, and more.

EPS is not a government-run service but is administered by private companies regulated by the government. This means employees can choose from various authorized providers, such as Sura, Sanitas, or Nueva EPS, while the coverage and pricing remain standardized nationwide.


What Horizons Clients Must Know

If you are employing workers in Colombia through Horizons, here’s what you need to be aware of regarding EPS compliance:

  • EPS enrollment is mandatory for all employees upon hiring. No one can legally work in Colombia without being affiliated with an EPS.

  • If an employee does not select an EPS, Horizons (or our local payroll partner) will assign one by default to avoid any legal or coverage issues.

  • Contributions are shared:

    • Employers contribute 8.5% of the employee’s monthly salary.

    • Employees contribute 4%, which is withheld from their gross salary.

  • Immediate registration is required. Delays in enrollment may result in legal penalties or lapses in medical coverage.

Horizons handles EPS registration and payroll deductions as part of our compliant hiring process in Colombia.


What Employees Must Know

As an employee in Colombia hired through Horizons, your EPS affiliation gives you access to a broad range of healthcare services, including:

  • General practitioner and specialist visits

  • Emergency care

  • Hospital stays

  • Prescription medications

  • Chronic disease management

  • Maternity and pediatric care

Other important details:

  • You are free to choose your EPS provider, but must stay with the selected provider for at least 90 days before switching.

  • Pre-existing conditions are fully covered—EPS plans cannot deny service based on your medical history.

  • Once enrolled, you will receive a carné EPS (health card), which must be presented when accessing care.

Was this article helpful?

That’s Great!

Thank you for your feedback

Sorry! We couldn't be helpful

Thank you for your feedback

Let us know how can we improve this article!

Select at least one of the reasons
CAPTCHA verification is required.

Feedback sent

We appreciate your effort and will try to fix the article