What are the types of Employment Contracts in Burundi?



Modified on: Wed, 20 Aug, 2025 at 8:07 PM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

In Burundi, employment contracts are governed by the Labour Code and must be established in writing in one of the official languages understood by the employee . 


Types of Employment Contracts

Burundian labor law recognizes several types of employment contracts:


  • Indefinite Term: No specified end date. 
  • Fixed Term: Has a defined duration. 
  • Part-Time: Weekyl working time is at least one-third less than the legal or agreen full-time hours. 
  • Temporary: Used for short-term or seasonal work. 


Mandatory Information in Employment Contracts


All employment contracts must include the following details:

  1. Employer Information: Name, address, and name of the director or manager.
  2. Employee Information: Full name, date and place of birth, nationality, residence, and family composition.
  3. Job Details: Profession, job description, place of work, and classification in the professional hierarchy.
  4. Contract Terms: Date of engagement, duration (if applicable), and special conditions.
  5. Compensation: Salary, bonuses, allowances, family benefits.
  6. Legal Requirements: Work permit number (for foreign workers).
  7. Signatures: Both parties must sign the contract.


Fixed Term Contracts


Fixed-term contracts are subject to specific rules:

  • Maximum Duration: Cannot be renewed beyond one year. After this, the contract is considered indefinite.

Permitted Uses:

  • Replacement of a suspended employee.
  • Jobs in sectors where indefinite contracts are not standard (e.g., agriculture, tourism).
  • Occasional or one-off tasks.
  • Temporary increases in activity or business expansion.
  • Urgent tasks to prevent accidents or repair equipment.
  • Seasonal work.
  • Employment aimed at training or integrating specific job seekers.

No Specified Duration Allowed:

  • When replacing an employee on legal suspension.
  • For seasonal jobs.

Failure to specify the reason for a fixed-term contract may result in its conversion to an indefinite contract


Probationary Period

Contracts may include a probationary period, which must be explicitly stated. The duration depends on the employee's role and must comply with legal limits. During this period, either party may terminate the contract with reduced notice 


Additional Notes

  • Part-time workers must receive written contracts detailing their work schedule and remuneration.
  • Non-compete and confidentiality clauses are enforceable if reasonable in scope and duration.
  • Termination procedures must follow legal protocols to avoid disputes or penalties.


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