Article
22 min read
Biweekly vs Monthly Pay: Country-by-Country Comparison Guide
Global HR
Legal & compliance

Author
Jemima Owen-Jones
Last Update
October 02, 2025

Table of Contents
Albania
Angola
Argentina
Armenia
Australia
Austria
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Belarus
Belgium
Benin
Bolivia
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Botswana
Brazil
Bulgaria
Burkina Faso
Cambodia
Cameroon
Canada
Chad
Chile
China
Colombia
Costa Rica
Croatia
Cyprus
Czechia (Czech Republic)
Denmark
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Egypt
El Salvador
Equatorial Guinea
Estonia
Eswatini
Ethiopia
Finland
France
Gabon
Gambia
Georgia
Germany
Ghana
Greece
Guatemala
Guinea
Honduras
Hungary
Iceland
India
Indonesia
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Jamaica
Japan
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Latvia
Lesotho
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Madagascar
Malawi
Malaysia
Mali
Malta
Mauritania
Mauritius
Mexico
Moldova
Montenegro
Morocco
Mozambique
Namibia
Nepal
Netherlands
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Niger
Nigeria
North Macedonia
Norway
Oman
Pakistan
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
Russia
Rwanda
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Serbia
Sierra Leone
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sri Lanka
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Tanzania
Thailand
Togo
Tunisia
Turkey
Uganda
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
United States
Uruguay
Vietnam
Zambia
Zimbabwe
Pay your teams on time, anywhere in the world with Deel
Key takeaways
Payroll frequency isn’t universal—while the US favors biweekly, most of Europe mandates monthly pay, and countries like Russia or Ukraine require semi-monthly cycles. For global employers, keeping track of these differences creates compliance risks, added admin, and employee frustration.
Companies need a clear, country-by-country understanding of payroll frequency rules and best practices to avoid penalties and ensure employees are paid correctly and on time—no matter where they work.
Deel streamlines global payroll by managing compliance, payments, and workforce administration in 130+ countries. Whether through our Employer of Record (EOR) entities or your own, everyone gets paid on time, faster, and in full compliance with local laws—so you can focus on scaling with confidence.
When global companies search for payroll guidance, one of the biggest questions is how often to pay employees—biweekly or monthly? The answer isn’t the same everywhere. Some countries mandate monthly pay, others allow biweekly or semi-monthly cycles, and a few require salaries to be split into two installments each month.
Get this wrong, and the consequences are serious: compliance fines, employee dissatisfaction, or payroll teams buried in unnecessary admin. A misstep in one market can ripple across your entire global operation.
At Deel, we manage payroll in 130+ countries and see these challenges play out every day. In the US, biweekly is most common, while much of Europe mandates monthly. Latin America often mixes both, and some regions add unique requirements like 13th-month pay. Knowing the rules isn’t optional—it’s critical for protecting your business and supporting your people.
This guide is for HR leaders, payroll managers, and founders scaling globally. It provides clear country-by-country breakdowns of payroll frequency, legal requirements, and best practices. Our goal is to cut through the complexity, build trust with your teams, and help you run payroll confidently anywhere in the world.
Let’s jump in…
Albania
In Albania, payroll is straightforward, with salaries paid exclusively on a monthly basis.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly (the only legally permitted option)
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not allowed; only monthly payments are permitted
Other Notes: None specified
Angola
Payroll in Angola offers flexibility, as multiple payment schedules are legally permitted.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: All options are legally allowed — weekly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 26th of each month
Legal Requirements: No restrictions on frequency; employers may choose
Other Notes: Market practice generally centers around monthly payments, despite broad legal flexibility
Argentina
Argentina allows several payroll frequencies, though monthly remains the norm for most employers.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Weekly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are all allowed
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: All common payroll frequencies are legally supported
Other Notes: Employers typically standardize on monthly cycles for ease of compliance and reporting
Deel Payroll
Run payroll in Deel. Anywhere. Your way.

Armenia
Armenia permits multiple payroll schedules, though monthly is most commonly used.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are allowed; weekly is not permitted
Typical Pay Date: Last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers must adhere to the allowed payment frequencies
Other Notes: Market practice leans strongly toward monthly payroll
Australia
Australia offers flexibility in payroll cycles, with weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly options all supported.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly are allowed; semi-monthly is not permitted
Typical Pay Date: 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers must ensure payments meet minimum national standards, but can choose between allowed frequencies
Other Notes: Industry agreements often shape whether weekly or bi-weekly is used, especially in trades and hospitality

Guide
New to Australian payroll?
Austria
Payroll in Austria is highly standardized, with monthly as the only legal option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not allowed; only monthly is supported
Other Notes: Compliance requires adherence to the monthly cycle without exceptions
Bahrain
Employers in Bahrain benefit from a wide range of legally accepted payroll frequencies.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Weekly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are all permitted
Typical Pay Date: Salaries are usually paid between the 25th of the current month and the 5th of the following month, most often between the 28th and 30th
Legal Requirements: Flexible framework allows employers to choose payment frequency
Other Notes: Payroll timing often depends on company policy and industry norms
Bangladesh
Payroll in Bangladesh is highly standardized, with only monthly payments permitted by law.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not allowed; only monthly is supported
Other Notes: Employers must ensure timely payments to remain compliant
Belarus
Belarus requires more frequent salary distribution compared to most countries.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Legally, salaries must be paid twice per month with no more than 15 days between payments
Typical Pay Date: Commonly the 15th and the last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers are required to make two payments each month; monthly-only cycles are not compliant
Other Notes: This semi-monthly structure is mandatory, not optional
Belgium
Payroll in Belgium is tightly regulated, with monthly as the only permissible frequency.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Typically the last working day of the month; legally no later than the 5th of the following month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not permitted
Other Notes: Employers must adhere strictly to statutory payment deadlines
Benin
In Benin, payroll is highly standardized, with monthly payments as the only legally permitted option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not allowed; only monthly is supported
Other Notes: None specified
Bolivia
Bolivia provides flexibility in payroll scheduling, though most employers rely on a monthly cycle.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Flexible — weekly, bi-monthly, or monthly are all allowed
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: All common payroll frequencies are permitted by law
Other Notes: Market practice strongly favors monthly pay despite legal flexibility
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Payroll in Bosnia and Herzegovina is strictly regulated, with only monthly pay permitted.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not allowed
Other Notes: None specified
Botswana
In Botswana, payroll is monthly, with fixed dates that adjust for weekends or holidays.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month. If these dates fall on a weekend or public holiday, payment is made the prior business day
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not permitted
Other Notes: Employers must adjust payroll timing to avoid late payments when dates coincide with non-working days
Brazil
Brazil mandates regular salary payments, with both monthly and bi-weekly structures permitted.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly and bi-weekly are legally supported
Typical Pay Date: Commonly the 30th of the month; law also permits payments on the 15th and 30th
Legal Requirements: Employers must adhere to statutory timing rules. Weekly and semi-monthly payments are not allowed
Other Notes: A “13th salary” is also common practice, typically paid in two installments (November and December)

Guide
Learn how to run payroll in Brazil
Bulgaria
Payroll in Bulgaria follows a monthly cycle, though the pay date is typically in the following month.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Between the 1st and 15th of the following month
Legal Requirements: Employers are expected to pay wages on a monthly basis
Other Notes: Off-cycle payments are uncommon; one payslip per month is typical
Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso allows broad payroll flexibility, with multiple payment frequencies legally supported.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Weekly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are all allowed
Typical Pay Date: Commonly the 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers can choose any legally permitted frequency
Other Notes: Practice may vary depending on industry or employer size
Cambodia
Cambodia requires more frequent wage payments, mandating semi-monthly payroll.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Semi-monthly (the only legally permitted option)
Typical Pay Date: 15th and last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers must pay employees twice per month; weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly-only cycles are not permitted
Other Notes: This bi-part payment schedule is mandatory across industries
Cameroon
Payroll in Cameroon is monthly, with statutory rules around timing to ensure timely payments.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: End of the month, and no later than the 8th of the following month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not allowed; employers must comply with monthly timing rules
Other Notes: Flexibility exists within the statutory deadline, but payments beyond the 8th are non-compliant
Canada
In Canada, payroll is flexible, with several payment frequencies legally permitted. Semi-monthly and bi-weekly are the most common, though monthly cycles are also supported.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Semi-monthly and bi-weekly, with monthly also permitted
Typical Pay Date: 15th and the last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly payments are not allowed, but semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly cycles are legally recognized
Other Notes: Payroll timing requirements vary slightly by province, but monthly or more frequent cycles are standard practice

Guide
How to Run Payroll in Canada: Step-by-Step Guide
Chad
Payroll in Chad is highly standardized, with monthly pay as the only permitted frequency.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th and 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not permitted
Other Notes: Employers typically issue monthly payments split into two dates
Chile
In Chile, payroll practices are straightforward, with monthly pay cycles being the sole option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid on a monthly basis
Other Notes: None specified
China
China enforces a strict monthly payroll system, with clear statutory rules on timing.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly (the only legally permitted option)
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month. Employers must pay no later than the final calendar day
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not permitted; salaries must be paid monthly
Other Notes: Compliance requires strict adherence to payment deadlines
Colombia
Colombia allows flexibility between monthly and bi-weekly cycles, though monthly is the standard.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly (bi-weekly also legally permitted)
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may choose monthly or bi-weekly payroll structures
Other Notes: Market practice strongly favors monthly payments for administrative simplicity
Costa Rica
Payroll in Costa Rica is legally restricted to monthly payments, with fixed deadlines for employers.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: First day of the following month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not permitted. Employers must process payroll on a monthly basis
Other Notes: None specified
Croatia
Payroll in Croatia is straightforward, with monthly payments as the only legally permitted option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 1st day of the following month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not allowed. Salaries must be paid monthly
Other Notes: Employers must ensure timely payments in line with the legal schedule
Cyprus
Cyprus provides flexibility in payroll frequency, with all common cycles legally allowed, though monthly is most widely used.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Weekly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are all permitted
Typical Pay Date: By the last banking day of the month
Legal Requirements: Under the Protection of Wages Laws of 2007 and 2012, wages must be paid at least weekly or monthly (no later than the last working day of the month). Any delay beyond the agreed schedule is a legal violation
Other Notes: Employers and employees may agree on a preferred frequency, provided statutory deadlines are observed
Czechia (Czech Republic)
In Czechia, payroll is standardized with monthly payments as the only option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Up to the 15th of the following month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly cycles are not allowed; wages must be paid monthly within the statutory window
Other Notes: Employers must ensure compliance with the latest date of the 15th

Guide
The Case for Global Payroll Consolidation
Denmark
Employers in Denmark have significant flexibility in payroll scheduling, with all common frequencies permitted.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Weekly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are all legally supported
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: No restrictions on frequency; payment schedules are typically guided by collective agreements and employer–employee contracts
Other Notes: Market practice leans toward monthly pay for professional roles, while weekly or bi-weekly cycles are more common in hourly or unionized industries
Dominican Republic
Payroll in the Dominican Republic allows multiple frequencies, though semi-monthly and monthly are the most common.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Semi-monthly and monthly
Typical Pay Date: 15th and last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are all allowed; weekly is not permitted
Other Notes: Employers typically choose semi-monthly cycles to align with labor expectations
Ecuador
Ecuador offers flexibility in payroll cycles, with several frequencies legally supported.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Semi-monthly and monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly pay is not permitted, but semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are allowed
Other Notes: Employers often prefer monthly schedules for simplicity, though semi-monthly is also common in some industries
Egypt
Payroll in Egypt is flexible, with multiple payment schedules legally permitted, provided employees are paid at least once per month.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers must pay staff at least monthly. Bi-weekly and semi-monthly cycles must not exceed 15 days between payments. Salaries must be paid within five days after the end of the pay period
Other Notes: The system allows flexibility, but employers must strictly observe timing rules to remain compliant
El Salvador
Payroll in El Salvador follows a monthly cycle, with most employers standardizing on two common payment dates.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Commonly the 15th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: The Labor Code requires salary to be paid on a fixed and regular basis
Other Notes: Employers have discretion to set the schedule, but consistency is legally required
Equatorial Guinea
Payroll in Equatorial Guinea is standardized, with monthly pay as the only legal option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th and 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not permitted
Other Notes: None specified
Estonia
In Estonia, payroll is monthly, with employers allowed some flexibility on exact dates.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month, or up to the 10th of the following month
Legal Requirements: Employers must pay at least once per month, with timing agreed in the employment contract.
Other Notes: Practices may vary slightly across employers but must comply with minimum legal standards
Eswatini
Payroll in Eswatini is straightforward, with monthly as the sole legal payment cycle.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not permitted
Other Notes: None specified
Ethiopia
Payroll in Ethiopia is standardized, with employees paid monthly on set dates.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th of the month
Legal Requirements: Other payroll frequencies are not permitted by law
Other Notes: None specified
Finland
Finland provides significant flexibility in payroll frequency, though monthly payments are most common.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Weekly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are all legally allowed
Typical Pay Date: Last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may select the frequency in line with employment contracts and collective agreements
Other Notes: While multiple options are legally valid, monthly cycles dominate for professional and salaried roles
France
Payroll in France is tightly regulated, with monthly pay as the only legal option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Two days before the end of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly cycles are not permitted
Other Notes: Employers must adhere to the statutory monthly schedule without exceptions

Free Resource
Free Global Payroll Guide [With Expert Insights]
Gabon
Payroll in Gabon follows a standardized monthly cycle, with fixed payment dates.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Only monthly payroll is permitted; other cycles are not allowed
Other Notes: None specified
Gambia
Payroll in Gambia is highly standardized, with monthly pay as the only legal option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly cycles are not permitted
Other Notes: None specified
Georgia
Georgia offers full flexibility in payroll frequency, though monthly payments are the most common in practice.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Flexible (weekly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly, or monthly, depending on contract). Monthly is typical
Typical Pay Date: Last working day or last calendar day of the month
Legal Requirements: Payment schedules are determined by the labor contract, but salaries must be issued at least once per month
Other Notes: Flexibility allows employers to adapt payroll frequency to workforce needs
Germany
Payroll in Germany is strictly monthly, with clear legal expectations around timing.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not permitted; salaries must be paid monthly
Other Notes: Many employers also pay additional allowances or a 13th-month salary as part of standard compensation packages
Ghana
Payroll in Ghana provides some flexibility, with both monthly and bi-weekly schedules legally allowed.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly and bi-weekly
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly and semi-monthly pay are not allowed. Employers may choose between monthly and bi-weekly cycles
Other Notes: Market practice generally favors monthly pay cycles
Greece
Payroll in Greece is strictly regulated, with monthly payments as the standard.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month; some contracts allow payment up to the 10th of the following month
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid by the last working day of each month. A late payment of even one day can be a criminal offense, particularly for holiday bonuses. Employees may take legal action if salaries are overdue for two months or more
Other Notes: Employers must pay special attention to holiday bonus deadlines (Christmas and Easter)
Guatemala
Guatemala allows significant payroll flexibility, with all major frequencies legally permitted.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Weekly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are all allowed. Monthly is typical
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may select from all permitted cycles
Other Notes: Despite flexibility, monthly payroll is the most common practice across industries
Guinea
Payroll in Guinea is standardized, with monthly pay as the only legal option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th and 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not permitted
Other Notes: None specified

Guide
Global Payroll Compliance Checklist
Honduras
Payroll in Honduras offers flexibility, with several payment frequencies legally supported, though requirements differ by worker type.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Weekly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are all allowed
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Contracts set the schedule. Manual workers must be paid at least every 7 days, while intellectual workers must be paid at least every 30 days
Other Notes: Employers should carefully align payroll schedules with employee classification to remain compliant
Hungary
Payroll in Hungary is standardized around a monthly cycle, with clear deadlines for employers.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Commonly before the last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid no later than the 10th of the following month. If that date falls on a weekend or holiday, payment must be made on the prior working day
Other Notes: None specified
Iceland
In Iceland, payroll is exclusively monthly, with simple and predictable pay schedules.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month, or the first working day of the following month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not allowed
Other Notes: None specified
India
Payroll in India is strictly monthly, with statutory rules defining the permissible payment window.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Generally the 28th of the month; legally permitted between the 26th and the last day
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly cycles are not permitted. Employers must pay within the legally defined window
Other Notes: None specified
Indonesia
Indonesia allows broad payroll flexibility, with multiple payment frequencies supported by law.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Weekly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are all legally permitted. Monthly is the most common
Typical Pay Date: On or before the last working day of each month
Legal Requirements: Employers may set the frequency, provided employees are paid regularly and on time
Other Notes: Collective agreements or company policy often shape payroll timing
Ireland
Payroll in Ireland provides flexibility, with weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly schedules permitted.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, depending on industry and role
Typical Pay Date: Last day of the month or last day of the week
Legal Requirements: Semi-monthly pay is not allowed, but other common cycles are legally supported
Other Notes: Weekly payroll is common in hourly or unionized sectors; monthly cycles dominate for salaried staff
Israel
Payroll in Israel is highly standardized, with monthly as the only legally supported option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month; legally, no later than the 10th of the following month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not allowed. Employers must meet the statutory monthly deadline
Other Notes: None specified
Italy
Payroll in Italy is highly standardized, with monthly pay as the only legal option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Between the 27th and 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not permitted. Salaries must be paid on a monthly cycle
Other Notes: Employers must comply with fixed monthly deadlines; parallel payroll runs are possible if needed
Jamaica
Jamaica provides payroll flexibility, with several payment frequencies permitted by law. While all cycles are legally allowed, monthly is most commonly practiced.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly is typical, though weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly are also allowed
Typical Pay Date: Last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may choose from all common frequencies
Other Notes: Industry practices often shape the chosen cycle, with monthly more common for salaried employees
Japan
Payroll in Japan is strictly monthly, with very limited flexibility in pay schedules.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly cycles are not allowed; salaries must be paid monthly
Other Notes: Employers are expected to maintain strict compliance with monthly payroll timing
Jordan
Jordan follows a standardized monthly payroll cycle, with no alternative frequencies permitted.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th of the month
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid monthly; weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly pay are not allowed
Other Notes: Employers must ensure consistent compliance with statutory deadlines
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan requires monthly payroll but allows a grace period into the following month.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Commonly the last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid monthly and no later than the 10th of the following month
Other Notes: Employers have some flexibility but must not exceed the statutory deadline
Kenya
Kenya provides flexibility in payroll frequency, with multiple options legally allowed.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly is most common, though semi-monthly and bi-weekly are also permitted
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly payroll is not allowed, but employers can choose semi-monthly, bi-weekly, or monthly cycles
Other Notes: Employers often align payroll schedules with sector norms and operational needs
Latvia
Payroll in Latvia provides some flexibility, with both monthly and semi-monthly payments permitted.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, though semi-monthly is also allowed
Typical Pay Date: Last day of the month, or up to the 10th of the following month
Legal Requirements: Employers must pay wages at least once a month. Semi-monthly schedules are allowed, but weekly and bi-weekly cycles are not permitted
Other Notes: Employment contracts typically define the precise pay date within the legal window
Lesotho
In Lesotho, payroll is highly standardized, with monthly pay as the only legally supported option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th and 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not allowed
Other Notes: None specified
Lithuania
Payroll in Lithuania allows for monthly or semi-monthly pay, though monthly cycles are most common.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, with semi-monthly also legally permitted
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers must comply with either monthly or semi-monthly cycles; other frequencies are not allowed
Other Notes: Monthly is the prevailing market practice across industries
Luxembourg
Luxembourg follows a uniform monthly payroll system, with fixed payment schedules.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 26th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly cycles are not allowed; salaries must be paid monthly
Other Notes: Employers are expected to comply strictly with the set monthly date
Madagascar
Payroll in Madagascar is standardized, with salaries issued on a monthly basis.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Only monthly payroll is permitted
Other Notes: None specified
Malawi
In Malawi, payroll is monthly, with rules in place to avoid conflicts with weekends or holidays.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month. If these dates fall on a weekend or public holiday, payment is made on the prior working day
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not permitted
Other Notes: Employers must adjust dates proactively to maintain compliance
Malaysia
Payroll in Malaysia is strictly monthly, with no alternative cycles permitted.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly pay cycles are not permitted. Employers must pay salaries monthly
Other Notes: None specified

Guide
A Guide to Running Payroll in Malaysia
Mali
Payroll in Mali is standardized, with monthly as the only legally supported option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th and 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not allowed
Other Notes: None specified
Malta
Malta provides flexibility in payroll frequency, with multiple options legally supported, though monthly is common in practice.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Weekly is not permitted, but semi-monthly, bi-weekly, and monthly are all allowed
Typical Pay Date: Last working day or last Friday of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers must calculate payroll on fixed schedules of 52, 26, 13, or 12 payments per year, depending on frequency chosen
Other Notes: Choice of cycle is at the employer’s discretion, provided consistency is maintained
Mauritania
Payroll in Mauritania is strictly monthly, with no flexibility in payment frequency.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly pay cycles are not allowed
Other Notes: None specified
Mauritius
In Mauritius, payroll is standardized as monthly, with fixed timing close to month-end.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Three working days before the last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly cycles are not permitted. Salaries must be paid on a monthly basis
Other Notes: Employers must comply with the statutory deadline to remain compliant
Mexico
Mexico allows multiple payroll schedules, with semi-monthly being the most common in practice.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Semi-monthly and monthly are most widely used, though weekly and bi-weekly are also legally permitted
Typical Pay Date: 15th and 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may choose from all major frequencies; the chosen schedule must be consistent
Other Notes: Many companies adopt semi-monthly to align with labor expectations and administrative norms
Moldova
Moldova offers broad flexibility in payroll frequency, though monthly pay is the standard practice.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly (other frequencies, including weekly, bi-weekly, and even daily, are permitted)
Typical Pay Date: Within 10 business days following the last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers must follow the contractual payroll frequency agreed with employees
Other Notes: Monthly remains the dominant approach despite broad legal flexibility
Montenegro
Payroll in Montenegro is highly standardized, with monthly pay as the only legally permitted option.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Monthly, as defined in employment contracts
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payments are not allowed. Employers must issue salaries on a monthly cycle
Other Notes: None specified
Morocco
Morocco allows flexibility in payroll frequency, though monthly cycles are most common.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, with semi-monthly and bi-weekly also legally permitted
Typical Pay Date: Commonly from the 26th of the month, though there are no statutory fixed dates. Employers may set pay dates at their discretion
Legal Requirements: Employers are free to choose the payroll schedule, provided it aligns with contractual agreements
Other Notes: Market practice leans strongly toward monthly payroll for ease of administration
Mozambique
Payroll in Mozambique is simple and standardized, with salaries issued only on a monthly basis.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid on a monthly cycle; other frequencies are not permitted
Other Notes: None specified

Template
Get your 2026 payroll calendar
Namibia
Namibia provides flexibility in payroll cycles, though monthly pay is the prevailing practice.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, with semi-monthly and bi-weekly also legally allowed
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may choose from among permitted cycles, provided they remain consistent
Other Notes: Monthly payroll remains the standard in most industries
Nepal
Payroll in Nepal is standardized as monthly, with rules tied to the local calendar system.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Within 7 days after month-end under the Nepali calendar, which often falls mid-month in the Gregorian calendar (e.g., around the 22nd)
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not permitted. Employers must comply with the monthly deadline
Other Notes: Deel follows Nepal’s local calendar requirements to align with statutory obligations
Netherlands
Payroll in the Netherlands is straightforward, with monthly as the only permitted and practiced schedule.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th of the month
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid monthly
Other Notes: Employers typically standardize on the 25th to align with compliance and employee expectations
New Zealand
New Zealand provides full flexibility in payroll cycles, though monthly pay is the most common in practice.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Flexible — employers may choose weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly, or monthly. Monthly is typical
Typical Pay Date: Commonly the 15th and 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: No restrictions on payroll frequency; employers can determine schedules in line with employment contracts
Other Notes: Collective agreements often influence payroll cycles in certain industries
Nicaragua
Nicaragua allows multiple payroll cycles, though most employers standardize on monthly pay.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, with weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly also legally permitted
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: All common payroll frequencies are permitted by law
Other Notes: Despite flexibility, monthly pay is strongly favored in practice
Niger
Payroll in Niger is strictly monthly, with standard payment dates set close to month-end.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month. If these dates fall on a weekend or public holiday, payment is made on the prior working day
Legal Requirements: Only monthly payroll is permitted
Other Notes: Employers must ensure adjustments when payment dates coincide with non-working days
Nigeria
Nigeria allows some payroll flexibility, though monthly remains the prevailing approach.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly is most common; bi-weekly and semi-monthly are also allowed
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may choose among legally permitted cycles, but monthly is the default standard
Other Notes: Practices can vary depending on industry norms
North Macedonia
Payroll in North Macedonia is monthly, with specific tax reporting deadlines tied to payroll submission.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers must submit payroll to the tax office by the 10th of the following month, with payments due by the 15th
Other Notes: Employers must align payroll with both payment and reporting obligations
Norway
Norway allows full flexibility in payroll schedules, though monthly pay dominates in practice.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Flexible, though monthly is typical
Typical Pay Date: Commonly the 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: No statutory restrictions on payroll frequency; agreements set the schedule
Other Notes: Collective bargaining agreements often influence payroll timing
Oman
Payroll in Oman is monthly, with employers given a legally defined payment window.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Between the 25th of the current month and the 5th of the following month
Legal Requirements: Employers must issue monthly salaries within this statutory timeframe
Other Notes: None specified
Pakistan
Payroll in Pakistan is strictly monthly, with no alternative frequencies permitted.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly cycles are not allowed; salaries must be paid monthly
Other Notes: None specified
Panama
Panama permits multiple payroll frequencies, though monthly is the most widely practiced.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, though bi-weekly and semi-monthly are also allowed
Typical Pay Date: 15th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may choose any of the permitted frequencies
Other Notes: Market practice favors monthly payroll, especially for salaried employees
Paraguay
Paraguay provides flexibility in payroll, with weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly schedules permitted.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, though weekly and bi-weekly are legally allowed
Typical Pay Date: Monthly, aligned with employer policy
Legal Requirements: Semi-monthly pay is not permitted. Employers must choose among the approved frequencies
Other Notes: Monthly payroll is the prevailing practice across industries
Peru
Peru enforces a standardized payroll system, allowing only monthly pay cycles.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Typically the last working day of the month, as defined in the employment contract
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not permitted
Other Notes: Employers should ensure clear contractual agreements to avoid disputes
Philippines
The Philippines allows multiple payroll frequencies, with semi-monthly being the standard in practice.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Semi-monthly is typical, though monthly and bi-weekly are also permitted
Typical Pay Date: 15th and the last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers must comply with the Labor Code, which requires employees to be paid at least twice per month
Other Notes: Semi-monthly payroll aligns with statutory requirements and is the norm nationwide
Poland
Payroll in Poland is monthly, with strict deadlines and compliance requirements tied to tax implications.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: By the end of the month, though best practice is not the final working day, since late payments can create tax recalculation issues
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid no later than the 10th of the following month (or the prior working day if the 10th falls on a non-working day). All employees must be paid on the same date
Other Notes: Holiday allowances are paid on the last working day. Payroll timing has direct tax implications, so employers must plan carefully
Portugal
Portugal operates on a straightforward monthly payroll cycle.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: End of the month
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid at least once per month. For terminations or resignations, employees must be paid in full by their last contract date to avoid litigation
Other Notes: Employers must ensure prompt settlement of end-of-service payments
Qatar
Qatar requires monthly payroll with a defined legal payment window.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Salaries are usually paid between the 25th of the current month and the 5th of the following month, with most employers paying between the 28th and 30th
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid within 10 days after the due date (e.g., June payroll must be paid by July 10)
Other Notes: Employers should maintain consistent payment dates to align with Wage Protection System (WPS) compliance
Romania
Romania mandates monthly payroll but allows flexibility in timing, often extending into the following month.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Typically between the 6th and 10th of the following month to allow timesheet and absence reconciliation. EOR pays on the last working day of the current month, with re-runs for adjustments
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid at least once per month, with timing agreed in the employment contract, collective agreement, or internal regulations
Other Notes: Employers must balance statutory requirements with practical considerations for capturing payroll data accurately.
Russia
Payroll in Russia is legally structured around semi-monthly payments, ensuring employees receive wages twice each month.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Semi-monthly
Typical Pay Date: 15th and last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers must issue salaries twice a month, with no more than 15 days between payments
Other Notes: Monthly-only payroll is not compliant under Russian law
Rwanda
Rwanda provides payroll flexibility, though monthly remains the standard practice across most organizations.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, though bi-weekly and semi-monthly are also permitted
Typical Pay Date: 25th of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may choose among permitted cycles, but monthly dominates in practice
Other Notes: None specified
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia follows a monthly payroll system, with a clear legal window for payment.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Between the 25th of the current month and the 5th of the following month, with most employers paying between the 28th and 30th
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid no later than 10 days after the due date (e.g., June payroll must be paid by July 10)
Other Notes: Employers must comply with the Wage Protection System (WPS) to ensure transparency
Senegal
Payroll in Senegal is standardized on a monthly cycle, with mid-month payment common.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 15th of the month
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid monthly
Other Notes: None specified
Serbia
Serbia permits both monthly and semi-monthly payroll, though monthly is most widely practiced.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: First working day of the month, covering the previous month’s work
Legal Requirements: Employers may also use semi-monthly schedules
Other Notes: Market practice strongly favors monthly pay
Sierra Leone
Payroll in Sierra Leone is limited to monthly cycles, with fixed dates near month-end.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly cycles are not permitted
Other Notes: None specified
Singapore
Singapore allows for monthly and bi-weekly payroll, though in practice monthly dominates. Deel supports both schedules, but not weekly or semi-monthly.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, with bi-weekly also permitted
Typical Pay Date: As agreed in employment contracts, typically end of month
Legal Requirements: Employers may pay monthly or bi-weekly. Weekly and semi-monthly are not allowed
Other Notes: Deel payroll software supports bi-weekly and monthly schedules, though operational flexibility is limited at present
Slovakia
Payroll in Slovakia is standardized around a monthly cycle, with clear statutory deadlines.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Between the 7th and 15th of the following month
Legal Requirements: Employers must pay salaries by the 15th of the following month at the latest
Other Notes: None specified
Slovenia
Slovenia enforces a monthly payroll system, with employers required to meet mid-month deadlines.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid by the 18th of the month for the previous month’s work
Other Notes: Employers often pay at month-end but must remain compliant with statutory cutoffs
South Africa
South Africa allows multiple payroll frequencies, though monthly cycles are the most common among employers.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, with semi-monthly and bi-weekly also legally permitted
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly payrolls are not allowed; employers may choose semi-monthly, bi-weekly, or monthly cycles
Other Notes: Employers typically favor monthly payroll for administrative efficiency

Guide
A Complete Guide to Running Payroll in South Africa
South Korea
South Korea provides payroll flexibility, though monthly pay is the standard practice across industries.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, though semi-monthly and bi-weekly are also permitted
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers must ensure employees are paid at least once per month
Other Notes: While multiple cycles are permitted, most organizations default to monthly payroll
Spain
Payroll in Spain is standardized around monthly payments, with clear statutory rules in place.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: End of the month, in line with employment agreements
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid monthly; no other cycles are permitted
Other Notes: Deel can run parallel payroll in Spain, which may require two cycles depending on client needs
Sri Lanka
Payroll in Sri Lanka is straightforward, with monthly as the only recognized cycle.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers must pay employees on a monthly basis; no other payroll frequencies are allowed
Other Notes: None specified
Sweden
Sweden permits full flexibility in payroll scheduling, although monthly payroll is most widely used.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly is typical, though weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly are all legally allowed
Typical Pay Date: 25th of the month
Legal Requirements: All major payroll frequencies are legally recognized
Other Notes: Collective agreements often influence payroll timing, especially in unionized sectors
Switzerland
Switzerland offers flexibility in payroll cycles, though monthly pay is the most common practice across industries.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, though weekly and bi-weekly are also legally permitted
Typical Pay Date: 25th of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may set payroll cycles in line with contracts, provided wages are paid regularly
Other Notes: Monthly payroll remains the standard despite legal flexibility
Taiwan
Taiwan permits multiple payroll schedules, though monthly pay dominates in practice.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, with semi-monthly and bi-weekly also allowed
Typical Pay Date: End of the month, typically on the last working day
Legal Requirements: Payroll timing may vary depending on company size and number of employees. Employers must ensure compliance with the Ministry of Labor’s guidelines
Other Notes: Collective agreements may influence payroll timing in some industries
Tanzania
Tanzania allows flexible payroll cycles, but monthly remains the most common approach.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, with weekly and fortnightly also permitted
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 26th of each month
Legal Requirements: Employers may choose among the legally permitted cycles
Other Notes: Monthly payroll is the prevailing practice across most organizations
Thailand
Thailand supports monthly and semi-monthly payroll cycles, with strict rules around pay frequency.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, though semi-monthly is also permitted
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly and bi-weekly payrolls are not allowed. Employers must issue pay either monthly or semi-monthly
Other Notes: Employers must remain consistent with the agreed frequency outlined in employment contracts
Togo
Payroll in Togo is strictly monthly, with fixed pay dates close to month-end.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month. If these dates fall on a weekend or public holiday, payment is made on the preceding working day
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid monthly
Other Notes: Employers must adjust dates to avoid late payments when paydays fall on non-working days
Tunisia
Payroll in Tunisia is standardized around monthly pay, with salaries typically issued before the end of the month.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Before the end of the month
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid monthly; other cycles are not permitted
Other Notes: None specified
Turkey
Payroll in Turkey is strictly monthly, with no alternative payment frequencies permitted.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last business day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not allowed. Salaries must be issued monthly
Other Notes: Parallel payroll is supported, with one cycle possible
Uganda
Uganda permits multiple payroll frequencies, though monthly is most widely used in practice.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly is standard, with semi-monthly and bi-weekly also allowed
Typical Pay Date: 30th or 31st of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may choose among permitted cycles, provided they remain consistent
Other Notes: None specified
Ukraine
Ukraine mandates bi-weekly payroll, requiring employees to be paid twice per month.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Bi-weekly (fortnightly)
Typical Pay Date: First cycle by the 15th of the month; second cycle by the 30th
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and monthly-only payrolls are not permitted; salaries must be paid twice per month
Other Notes: This semi-monthly structure is mandatory under Ukrainian labor law
United Arab Emirates
Payroll in the UAE is monthly, with timing tied closely to compliance with the Wage Protection System (WPS).
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: End of the month, though companies must comply with WPS requirements, which mandate payment within 10 days of the due date
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid monthly; delays beyond the WPS window can trigger penalties
Other Notes: Employers should ensure payroll schedules align with both contractual and WPS obligations
United Kingdom
The UK offers full flexibility in payroll frequency, with practices varying by employer and industry.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly is standard, though weekly, bi-weekly, and semi-monthly are all legally permitted
Typical Pay Date: No fixed national rule; pay dates are determined by company policy or industry norms
Legal Requirements: Employers may choose any legally supported frequency
Other Notes: Weekly pay is common in hospitality, retail, and trades, while monthly dominates in professional sectors

Guide
A Complete Guide to Payroll in the UK
United States
The US permits multiple payroll frequencies, though bi-weekly is the most common nationwide.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Bi-weekly, with semi-monthly and monthly also widely used. Weekly payroll is not permitted in many states
Typical Pay Date: Every other Friday (bi-weekly) or the 15th and last day of the month (semi-monthly)
Legal Requirements: Payroll frequency is regulated at the state level, with many states requiring at least semi-monthly pay
Other Notes: Industry and state laws heavily influence payroll cycles; weekly pay is common in construction and trades
Deel Payroll - US
Compliantly run payroll in all 50 states

Uruguay
Uruguay offers full payroll flexibility, though monthly cycles are the most common in practice.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Flexible — employers may choose weekly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly, or monthly
Typical Pay Date: Within five business days following the last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may set pay cycles freely, provided they comply with labor agreements and payment deadlines
Other Notes: Collective bargaining agreements may influence payroll timing in specific sectors
Vietnam
Payroll in Vietnam is standardized, with monthly pay as the only legally permitted cycle.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: Last working day of the month
Legal Requirements: Weekly, semi-monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls are not allowed; salaries must be paid monthly
Other Notes: Employers must ensure payments align with statutory deadlines
Zambia
Zambia provides flexibility in payroll cycles, though monthly pay is most widely practiced.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly, though weekly and bi-weekly are also legally allowed
Typical Pay Date: Last day of the month
Legal Requirements: Employers may choose among permitted frequencies
Other Notes: Monthly payroll is the default approach in most industries
Zimbabwe
Payroll in Zimbabwe is standardized around a monthly cycle, with salaries typically issued toward month-end.
Most Common Payroll Frequency: Monthly
Typical Pay Date: 25th or 30th of the month
Legal Requirements: Salaries must be paid monthly; no other frequencies are supported
Other Notes: Employers must plan for early payments if these dates fall on weekends or public holidays
Pay your teams on time, anywhere in the world with Deel
Managing payroll across borders isn’t just about choosing biweekly or monthly cycles—it’s about navigating a patchwork of local laws, cultural expectations, and compliance risks. For global employers, getting it right builds trust and keeps operations running smoothly. Getting it wrong can mean fines, employee dissatisfaction, and unnecessary complexity.
Deel takes the guesswork out of global payroll. With coverage in 130+ countries, we help you stay compliant, streamline operations, and make sure your team gets paid—on time, every time. Whether through our entities or your own, we handle the complexity so you can focus on growing your business.
Ready to simplify payroll and compliance across borders? Book a free 30-minute product demo with the team today and see how Deel can make global hiring and payments effortless.
More resources

Jemima is a nomadic writer, journalist, and digital marketer with a decade of experience crafting compelling B2B content for a global audience. She is a strong advocate for equal opportunities and is dedicated to shaping the future of work. At Deel, she specializes in thought-leadership content covering global mobility, cross-border compliance, and workplace culture topics.













