Atom DRC

UK-owned operation in The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
Employment services, work permit services, and sponsorships.

Local staff, local knowledge

UK-owned operation in the DRC providing employment and work permit services

Atom is a UK-based employment services specialist providing seamless solutions for international businesses expanding into the DRC. We handle the complexities of local labour laws and regulations, allowing you to focus on your core business. Our DRC-based entity offers comprehensive services including payroll, benefits administration, HR, and compliance. We empower businesses to tap into this dynamic region while mitigating risks and ensuring operational efficiency.

  • Atom-owned company in the DRC

  • Work permit services, visas services, and sponsorships

  • Local office in-country

  • Employer of Record (EOR)
    We become the legal employer, handling all local legal and regulatory requirements for your team members.

  • Reduced Time & Cost
    Skip the hassle and expense of setting up a legal entity in each new location.

  • Seamless Payroll & Taxes
    We manage payroll processing, tax withholdings, and on-time payments for your employees.

  • 20 years’ experience running payroll
    Access to an experienced in-house, fast turnaround times team, and a single point of contact

  • Fully compliant employment solution
    Navigating local labor laws and regulations, ensuring compliance throughout the employment lifecycle.

DRC Office

Atom Africa Team

Meet the Atom Africa team here.

Services

Employer of Record (EOR) service

To streamline your operations and ensure compliance, consider partnering with Atom as your Employer of Record (EOR).

  • Drafting and maintaining compliant employment contracts
  • Visa sponsorship available
  • Payroll and tax administration
  • Timely employee payments
  • Benefits administration
  • Compliant terminations and offboarding
  • Ongoing legal and regulatory guidance
  • All necessary insurance

Kinshasa, DRC

DRC: Fact Sheet

  • Capital
    Kinshasa

  • Official Language
    French

  • Recognised national languages
    Kikongo ya leta, Lingala, Swahili, Tshiluba
  • Currency
    Congolese Franc (CDF)

  • Population size
     105,061,492

  • VAT
    16% standard rate

  • Dialling code
    +243
  • Time Zone
    UTC+1 to +2 (WAT and CAT)

  • Tax authority
    Directorate General of Taxes (DGI)

  • Tax year
    1 January to 31 December

  • Interesting fact
    The DRC is the 2nd largest country in Africa and about 4 times larger the France.

  • Interesting fact
    The Okapi, unknown to the western world until the 20th century, can only be foudn in the DRC. The unique species, reminiscent of zebras with it's fascinating markings, is closely related to the giraffe.

  • Interesting fact
    Kinshasa is the most French-speaking city and the DRC is the most French-speaking country in the world!

DRC Employer's Guide

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) presents a complex yet potentially rewarding landscape for employers. With a vast population and abundant natural resources, the country offers a unique opportunity for business growth. However, navigating the DRC's legal and economic environment requires careful consideration. This guide provides essential insights into key employment aspects to help you make informed decisions.

The DRC's tax system can be intricate, with multiple taxes affecting businesses. Key taxes include:

Corporate income tax
30% on taxable profits.

Value Added Tax (VAT)
16% on the supply of goods and services.

Withholding tax
Varies depending on income type (e.g., 10% on dividends, 20% on interest), e.g., dividends, royalties, interest (no-local companies), directorship fees, service fees paid to foreign individuals or entities not established in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Payroll taxes
DRC operates a progressive personal income tax system where tax connot exceed 30%.

The minimum wage in the DRC is CDF 7,075.00. However, it's essential to note that this figure might not accurately reflect the prevailing wages in specific sectors or regions.

Legal working hours
45 hours per week or 9 hours per day, although the law does specify variations.

Overtime
Any time beyond the legal working hours.

DRC mandates increased compensation for overtime work.

While statutory benefits are limited, many employers offer additional perks to attract and retain talent. Common benefits include:

  • Pension plans
  • Health insurance
  • Flexible working arrangements
  • On-site amenities
  • Performance bonuses

Paid annual leave
24 days per year.

Sick leave
15 days per year

Maternity leave
14 weeks with full pay

Paternity leave
3 days

Finding skilled talent in the DRC can be challenging. Effective recruitment strategies include:

Local partnerships
Collaborate with universities, vocational schools, and industry associations.

Competitive compensation packages
Offer salaries and benefits that align with market standards.

Professional development opportunities
Invest in employee training and growth.

Strong employer branding
Build a positive reputation as an attractive workplace.

DRC law mandates notice periods based on length of service:

Less than 6 months of service
1 week's notice

6 months to 1 year of service
Two weeks' notice.

1 year or more of service
1 month's notice.

Several options exist for hiring employees in the DRC:

Direct hiring
Employing workers directly on the company's payroll.

Outsourcing
Contracting with a third-party provider to handle recruitment and employment.

Employer of Record (EOR)
Partnering with an EOR to manage HR and payroll functions.

Disclaimer: This information is intended as a general overview and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Employers are advised to consult for specific guidance.

Locations

Our local offices

Our local offices in Africa are ready to help you.

  • South Africa
  • Mozambique
  • Namibia
  • Nigeria
  • Ghana
  • Republic of Congo
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo

Offices opening soon

Contact us about how we can help you from these locations in the near future.

  • Angola
  • Gabon
  • Guinea
  • Morocco
  • Uganda
  • Kenya
  • Tanzania
  • Mauritius
  • Madagascar
  • Zambia
  • Botswana

Okapi, DRC

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