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Cameroon Social Contributions Guide 2026

Cameroon's social security system is administered by the Caisse Nationale de Prévoyance Sociale (CNPS). Contributions are 4.175% from the employee and 7.3% from the employer of gross salary, capped at XAF 1,800,000 per year (XAF 150,000 per month). The system provides retirement pensions, sickness and maternity benefits, family allowances, and occupational injury coverage. The retirement age is 60.

Overview — CNPS Social Security

The CNPS (Caisse Nationale de Prévoyance Sociale) administers Cameroon's mandatory social security system under the Labour Code and social security regulations. All employees in the public and private sectors must be registered with CNPS. The system is funded through employer and employee contributions based on gross salary. Self-employed individuals may also contribute voluntarily. Contributions are capped at XAF 1,800,000 per year (XAF 150,000 per month), meaning any salary above this ceiling is not subject to CNPS contributions.

Contribution Rates — Employee & Employer

The CNPS contribution rates are as follows:

  • Employee contribution — 4.175% of gross salary
  • Employer contribution — 7.3% of gross salary
  • Total — 11.475% of gross salary (capped at XAF 1,800,000/year)

The cap means that for an employee earning XAF 300,000 per month, contributions are calculated on the actual salary. For an employee earning XAF 500,000 per month, contributions are capped at the ceiling of XAF 150,000 per month. The maximum monthly employee contribution is XAF 6,262.50 (4.175% of 150,000) and the maximum employer contribution is XAF 10,950 (7.3% of 150,000).

Benefits Covered

CNPS contributions fund several social benefits:

  • Old-age pension — retirement pension from age 60 (minimum 15 years of contributions)
  • Sickness & maternity benefits — paid sick leave and maternity leave (14 weeks)
  • Family allowances — monthly allowances per child (up to age 14, or 21 if in education)
  • Occupational injury — medical care and compensation for work-related accidents
  • Survivor's pension — 50% of the deceased's pension to the spouse, plus children's share

FAQs

Are contributions mandatory for all workers?

Yes, all employees in Cameroon must be registered with CNPS. Employers who fail to register or remit contributions face penalties and back-payment obligations.

Can self-employed individuals contribute to CNPS?

Yes, self-employed individuals may contribute voluntarily to CNPS to build pension and social benefit entitlements. The voluntary contribution is based on declared income.

What happens if I leave Cameroon permanently?

If you emigrate permanently, you may apply for a refund of your personal CNPS contributions (but not employer contributions). Documentary evidence of emigration is required.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Cameroonian social security contributions for the 2026 tax year. Contribution rates and benefit rules may change. Always consult with CNPS or a qualified Cameroonian advisor for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide tax or social security advice.