Hire Leather Goods Product Developer in Italy: The Complete Guide for Global Employers

Why Global Companies Hire Leather Goods Product Developers from Italy

Italy stands as the undisputed global leader in luxury leather craftsmanship, with a heritage spanning centuries. Global companies seek Italian leather product developers for several compelling reasons:

• Unparalleled Craftsmanship Heritage: Italy’s leather tradition dates back to Renaissance artisanal workshops, creating a deeply embedded knowledge base passed through generations.
• Innovation Within Tradition: Italian leather professionals excel at balancing traditional techniques with modern innovations in materials, sustainability, and manufacturing processes.
• Material Expertise: Proximity to Italy’s renowned tanneries provides developers with exceptional knowledge of leather qualities, characteristics, and sourcing networks.
• Design Sensibility: The Italian approach integrates functionality with aesthetics, creating products that are both beautiful and practical.
• Quality Control Standards: Italian leather goods developers implement rigorous quality assurance protocols that ensure product excellence and longevity.

Who Should Consider Hiring Italy Leather Goods Product Developers

Various businesses can benefit from the expertise of Italian leather product developers:

• Luxury Fashion Brands: Companies looking to establish or elevate their leather goods collections with authentic Italian craftsmanship and design sensibility.
• Fashion Startups: New brands seeking to establish credibility and quality foundations through Italian leather expertise from the outset.
• Established Manufacturers: Companies looking to upgrade their leather goods production capabilities, quality standards, or design approaches.
• Sustainability-Focused Brands: Organizations wanting to implement eco-friendly leather practices while maintaining premium quality, drawing on Italy’s leadership in sustainable leather innovation.
• Multi-Category Retailers: Businesses expanding their product offerings to include premium leather goods and requiring specialized development expertise.

Key Skills and Specializations for Leather Goods Product Developers

Italian leather goods product developers possess a specialized skill set that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern product development methodologies:

Technical Skills

• Material Knowledge: Deep understanding of various leather types, their properties, and appropriate applications
• Pattern Making: Ability to create and modify patterns for different leather products
• Construction Techniques: Expertise in various assembly methods, from hand-stitching to machine production
• Finishing Techniques: Knowledge of edge treatments, dyeing, and protective coatings
• Technical Drawing: Proficiency in creating detailed technical specifications and production documents

Design Skills

• Aesthetic Sensibility: Understanding of proportion, color theory, and design principles
• Trend Analysis: Ability to interpret and apply market trends appropriately
• Creative Problem-Solving: Finding innovative solutions for design and production challenges
• CAD Proficiency: Experience with digital design tools like Adobe Illustrator, CLO 3D, or specialized leather goods software

Production Knowledge

• Manufacturing Processes: Understanding of industrial production methods for leather goods
• Quality Control: Ability to establish and maintain quality standards
• Cost Engineering: Knowledge of material optimization and production efficiency
• Supply Chain Management: Familiarity with leather sourcing networks and component suppliers

Experience Levels of Italy Leather Goods Product Developers

Understanding the experience hierarchy in Italian leather goods development helps set appropriate expectations for roles and compensation:

Entry-Level (1-3 years)

At this stage, professionals typically work under direct supervision, contributing to specific aspects of the development process:

• Graduates from specialized leather goods or fashion design programs
• Basic understanding of leather types and construction techniques
• Ability to execute established patterns and specifications
• Usually assist with sample development and technical documentation
• Beginning to build material sourcing knowledge
• Often work in assistant roles to more experienced developers

Mid-Level (3-7 years)

These professionals can independently manage product development projects with established direction:

• Solid understanding of leather properties and construction methods
• Ability to troubleshoot design and production issues
• Experience with technical specification creation and communication
• Can develop and modify patterns for various leather goods
• Understanding of production costs and material optimization
• Established relationships with suppliers and production partners
• May specialize in particular product categories

Senior-Level (7+ years)

Senior leather goods developers bring comprehensive expertise and can lead entire product lines or departments:

• Deep expertise across multiple leather goods categories
• Advanced problem-solving abilities for complex design and production challenges
• Ability to balance creativity with commercial viability
• Experience mentoring junior team members
• Strong network of industry contacts and material sources
• Often contribute to strategic product direction and innovation
• May oversee production partnerships and quality standards
• Understand market positioning and competitive landscape

Master Craftspeople (10+ years)

This elite tier represents the highest level of Italian leather craftsmanship:

• Recognized expertise in specific leather techniques or product categories
• Often trained through traditional apprenticeship systems
• Ability to create entirely new construction methods
• Deep understanding of the cultural heritage of Italian leather craftsmanship
• May lead innovation in sustainable or specialized leather techniques
• Often consulted on the most premium or complex products
• Typically command premium compensation or consulting rates

Hiring Models to Choose From

When hiring leather goods product developers in Italy, several employment models are available, each with distinct advantages for different business needs:

For companies seeking expertise without establishing an Italian entity, the Employer of Record model offers a particularly effective solution, providing compliant employment while minimizing administrative burden.

How to Legally Hire Leather Goods Product Developers in Italy

Companies seeking to hire Italian leather goods talent have two primary options for legal employment:

Option 1: Establishing an Italian Legal Entity

Setting up your own Italian business entity gives you direct employment capability but involves significant complexity:

• Requires minimum capital investment (€10,000 for an S.r.l., the most common limited liability company)
• Must register with the Italian Chamber of Commerce and tax authorities
• Need to appoint legal representatives and establish a registered office
• Required to maintain Italian accounting records and file regular tax returns
• Must register with social security and workplace insurance authorities
• Comply with collective bargaining agreements that may apply to the fashion/leather industry
• Timeline: Typically 2-4 months for full establishment

Option 2: Using an Employer of Record (EOR) Solution

An Employer of Record like Asanify provides a streamlined alternative to entity establishment:

• The EOR becomes the legal employer in Italy while you maintain day-to-day management
• Handles all payroll, benefits, tax withholding, and compliance requirements
• Creates legally compliant employment contracts under Italian law
• Manages mandatory benefits and contributions
• Ensures compliance with relevant collective agreements and labor regulations
• Provides ongoing HR support and compliance monitoring
• Timeline: Can be implemented in days rather than months

Understanding Italy’s Labour Laws is essential for either approach, as these regulations define employment terms, benefits requirements, and worker protections that apply regardless of your hiring model.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring Leather Goods Product Developers in Italy

Step 1: Define Your Requirements

Begin with a comprehensive definition of your leather product development needs:

• Specific product category expertise (handbags, small leather goods, footwear, etc.)
• Technical skills requirements (pattern making, material knowledge, construction techniques)
• Design capabilities (aesthetic direction, CAD proficiency, trend awareness)
• Production knowledge (manufacturing processes, quality control standards)
• Experience level needed (junior, mid-level, senior, master craftsperson)
• Language requirements (Italian, English, other languages)
• Location preferences (specific regions known for leather expertise like Tuscany, Marche, Veneto)

Step 2: Select the Appropriate Hiring Model

Based on your business needs, determine the most suitable employment structure:

• Consider the project timeline and long-term strategy
• Evaluate budget constraints and flexibility needs
• Assess entity establishment vs. EOR approach
• Determine employment type (permanent, fixed-term, project-based)
• Consider remote vs. on-site requirements (particularly important for hands-on development)

Step 3: Source Quality Candidates

Develop a targeted approach to finding top leather goods talent in Italy:

• Leverage specialized fashion and leather industry recruiters in Italy
• Connect with fashion and design schools (Polimoda, Instituto Marangoni, etc.)
• Utilize industry-specific job boards and professional networks
• Attend leather and fashion trade shows (Lineapelle, MICAM, etc.)
• Explore professional associations and craftsmen guilds
• Focus on leather manufacturing hubs like Florence, Milan, Naples, and the Marche region
• Consider reaching out to professionals from notable Italian leather goods brands

Step 4: Evaluate and Select Candidates

Implement a thorough assessment process tailored to leather goods development:

• Review portfolios for relevant product development examples
• Assess technical knowledge through structured interviews
• Conduct material knowledge evaluations
• Consider practical tests or sample development exercises
• Evaluate understanding of production processes and quality standards
• Assess communication skills and cultural fit for your organization
• Check references from previous employers or clients

Step 5: Onboard Successfully

Create a structured onboarding process to integrate your new leather goods developer:

• Establish compliant employment contracts with all required Italian legal elements
• Provide comprehensive brand guidelines and product standards
• Introduce key team members and stakeholders
• Set clear expectations for communication and deliverables
• Establish performance metrics and feedback mechanisms
• Create a development plan for continued skill enhancement

For a seamless onboarding experience, particularly with remote employees, Asanify provides a comprehensive Remote Employees Onboarding Checklist with EOR in Italy that ensures all legal and practical aspects are addressed.

Salary Benchmarks

Understanding the compensation landscape for leather goods product developers in Italy helps establish competitive offers. These figures represent base salary ranges and may vary based on location, specialization, and company prestige.

Regional variations are significant, with Milan commanding the highest salaries (10-20% above average), followed by Florence and Venice. Prestigious luxury brands typically pay premium rates, often 15-25% above industry averages for equivalent roles.

Additional compensation elements often include:

• Thirteenth month salary (mandatory in Italy)
• Performance bonuses (typically 5-15% of base salary)
• Meal vouchers (€5-8 per working day)
• Health insurance supplements
• Professional development allowances
• Travel allowances for industry events

For senior and master-level talent, compensation packages may also include:

• Collection success bonuses
• Patent or design royalties
• Equity or profit-sharing arrangements
• Expanded retirement contributions

What Skills to Look for When Hiring Leather Goods Product Developers

Hard Skills

• Material Expertise: Comprehensive knowledge of leather types, characteristics, grades, and appropriate applications
• Technical Construction: Understanding of assembly methods, stitching techniques, edge finishing, and structural elements
• Pattern Development: Ability to create, modify, and scale patterns for various leather products
• Technical Drawing: Proficiency in creating detailed specification sheets and technical documentation
• CAD Proficiency: Experience with relevant design software (Adobe Illustrator, CLO 3D, Rhino, etc.)
• Prototyping: Ability to develop samples and prototypes to test design concepts
• Quality Assessment: Knowledge of quality standards and testing methods for leather goods
• Production Knowledge: Understanding of industrial manufacturing processes and requirements
• Hardware Expertise: Familiarity with closures, fittings, and decorative elements

Soft Skills

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous focus on precision and quality
• Problem-Solving: Creative approaches to technical and design challenges
• Communication: Ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical team members
• Collaboration: Capacity to work effectively with designers, production teams, and suppliers
• Time Management: Ability to manage multiple projects and meet development deadlines
• Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust to changing design directions or material constraints
• Cultural Awareness: Understanding of brand values and aesthetic sensibilities
• Continuous Learning: Commitment to staying current with materials, techniques, and trends

Industry-Specific Qualifications

• Education: Degrees or certificates from specialized leather working schools, fashion institutes, or technical programs
• Portfolio: Demonstrated experience in relevant leather goods categories
• Industry Knowledge: Understanding of the leather goods market and competitive landscape
• Sustainability Awareness: Knowledge of eco-friendly materials and processes
• Artisanal Training: Apprenticeships or training with master craftspeople (particularly valuable for premium products)
• Language Skills: Italian proficiency is highly beneficial for communicating with suppliers and manufacturers

Legal and Compliance Considerations

Hiring leather goods product developers in Italy requires adherence to specific legal frameworks that govern employment, intellectual property, and industry standards:

Employment Regulations

• Contract Types: Italian law recognizes various employment contracts, with permanent (tempo indeterminato) and fixed-term (tempo determinato) being most common
• Collective Bargaining Agreements: The fashion and leather goods sector is often governed by CCNLs (Contratti Collettivi Nazionali di Lavoro) that establish minimum standards
• Probationary Periods: Typically range from 30 days for operational roles to 6 months for highly specialized positions
• Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week with regulations on overtime compensation
• Annual Leave: Minimum of 4 weeks paid vacation plus national holidays
• Termination Notice: Required notice periods based on seniority and applicable CCNLs

Tax and Social Security

• Income Tax: Progressive rates from 23% to 43%, withheld by the employer
• Social Security Contributions: Employers must contribute approximately 30% of gross salary
• Thirteenth Month Salary: Mandatory additional month’s salary typically paid in December
• TFR (Severance): Employers must set aside approximately 7.4% of salary annually for severance payments

Intellectual Property Considerations

• Design Rights: Clear contracts regarding ownership of designs, patterns, and technical innovations
• Non-Disclosure Agreements: Protection of proprietary techniques and material specifications
• Non-Compete Clauses: Restrictions on working for competitors (subject to legal limitations)
• Attribution Rights: Consideration of craftspeople’s rights to claim authorship of distinctive works

Industry-Specific Regulations

• Material Sourcing: Compliance with EU regulations on leather treatment and chemical usage
• Product Labeling: Requirements for accurate description of materials and country of origin
• Made in Italy Designation: Specific legal criteria for using the valuable “Made in Italy” designation
• Sustainability Standards: Increasing regulations around environmental impact and transparency

To navigate these complex requirements effectively, many international companies rely on specialized partners. Asanify’s Comprehensive Guide to Employee Tax Optimization in Italy provides valuable insights for maximizing efficiency within the Italian employment framework.

Common Challenges Global Employers Face

Companies hiring leather goods product developers in Italy frequently encounter these specific challenges:

Complex Employment Regulations

Italy’s employment framework presents significant compliance hurdles:

• Strict termination protection for permanent employees
• Complex collective bargaining agreements that may apply to fashion roles
• Extensive documentation requirements for employment contracts
• Mandatory benefits and contributions that increase employment costs
• Restrictions on fixed-term and flexible work arrangements

Cultural and Work Style Differences

Understanding the Italian approach to leather goods development is essential:

• Traditional craftsmanship values that may prioritize quality over speed
• Communication styles that rely heavily on context and relationships
• Different expectations regarding feedback and direction
• Preference for face-to-face interaction, particularly for material and sample evaluation
• August holiday period (Ferragosto) when many workshops and suppliers close

Intellectual Property Protection

Securing design innovations and technical knowledge requires careful management:

• Ensuring appropriate contracts cover all IP aspects
• Balancing protection with the collaborative nature of Italian craftsmanship
• Managing knowledge transfer while safeguarding proprietary techniques
• Navigating attribution expectations in an artisanal culture

Supply Chain Integration

Connecting Italian product developers with global operations presents challenges:

• Coordinating between Italian developers and international manufacturing partners
• Translating technical specifications across different production environments
• Managing material sourcing from Italian suppliers for global production
• Aligning Italian quality standards with international manufacturing capabilities

Remote Collaboration Limitations

The tactile nature of leather goods development presents unique remote work challenges:

• Difficulty in assessing material qualities and finishes virtually
• Complexities in communicating construction details without physical samples
• Challenges in prototype evaluation and refinement from a distance
• Need for specialized equipment and materials for effective home-based work

Navigating these challenges effectively often requires specialized support. Asanify’s Employer of Record solution addresses the employment compliance aspects, allowing you to focus on the creative and technical integration of your Italian leather goods talent while ensuring full legal compliance with Italian regulations.

Best Practices for Managing Remote Leather Goods Product Developers in Italy

Effective Communication Strategies

• Regular Video Meetings: Schedule consistent visual check-ins to discuss designs, materials, and progress
• Digital Asset Management: Implement systems for organizing and sharing technical specifications, patterns, and visual references
• Clear Documentation: Create standardized templates for specifications, feedback, and revisions
• Language Consideration: Provide translation support or bilingual documentation when necessary
• Visual Communication Tools: Utilize annotation software and digital drawing tools for clear visual feedback
• Recording Capability: Document important discussions about technical details for future reference

Material and Sample Management

• Physical Material Library: Establish aligned material collections at both developer and company locations
• Sample Shipping Protocol: Create efficient systems for exchanging physical prototypes and samples
• Digital Material Representation: Develop standardized photography and specification formats for material documentation
• Local Sampling Resources: Identify local workshops or partners who can produce interim samples for evaluation
• Material Coding System: Implement clear reference systems for discussing specific materials and components

Collaborative Tools and Technology

• 3D Visualization Software: Utilize tools like CLO 3D for virtual prototyping when applicable
• Project Management Systems: Implement platforms like Asana or Monday.com for tracking development milestones
• Digital Pattern Software: Provide access to pattern digitization and modification tools
• High-Quality Imaging Equipment: Ensure developers have proper photography setup for accurate material and sample documentation
• Secure File Sharing: Establish protected channels for sharing proprietary designs and technical specifications

Respecting Italian Work Culture

• Relationship Building: Invest time in personal connection, highly valued in Italian business culture
• Respect for Craftsmanship: Acknowledge the artisanal heritage and expertise that Italian developers bring
• Flexible Scheduling: Accommodate traditional Italian business hours and holiday periods
• Recognition of Expertise: Create opportunities for developers to showcase their specialized knowledge
• Professional Development: Support attendance at Italian leather trade shows and industry events

Quality Control and Feedback

• Structured Review Process: Establish clear stages for prototype evaluation and approval
• Objective Quality Standards: Define measurable quality criteria that can be assessed remotely
• Constructive Feedback Methods: Develop protocols for delivering clear, actionable improvement suggestions
• Physical Validation Points: Schedule strategic in-person meetings for critical development milestones
• Documentation of Decisions: Maintain detailed records of all quality-related discussions and approvals

Knowledge Sharing and Team Integration

• Cross-functional Exposure: Connect leather developers with designers, marketing, and sales teams
• Training Sessions: Facilitate knowledge sharing about materials and techniques across the organization
• Virtual Studio Tours: Create opportunities for team members to see the developer’s workspace and processes
• Cultural Exchange: Encourage sharing of both professional expertise and cultural perspectives

Why Use Asanify to Hire Leather Goods Product Developers in Italy

Asanify provides a comprehensive solution for companies looking to hire and manage Italian leather goods talent without establishing a local entity:

Compliant Employment Without an Entity

• Legal employment of Italian leather goods developers through our established Employer of Record structure
• Fully compliant contracts that meet all Italian labor law requirements
• Protection from misclassification risks associated with contractor arrangements
• Ability to hire quickly without the delays of entity establishment
• Flexibility to scale your Italian team according to business needs

Specialized Industry Knowledge

• Understanding of fashion and luxury goods employment practices
• Familiarity with relevant collective bargaining agreements
• Knowledge of intellectual property protection for design-focused roles
• Experience with the unique requirements of creative and technical professionals

Comprehensive Employment Management

• Full payroll processing in accordance with Italian regulations
• Administration of all mandatory benefits and social contributions
• Management of thirteenth month payments and TFR (severance) funds
• Compliant tax withholding and reporting
• Work permit and visa support for non-EU nationals

Streamlined Onboarding Process

• Structured onboarding workflow designed specifically for creative professionals
• Comprehensive onboarding checklist for remote employees in Italy
• Digital contract signing and document collection
• Clear communication of all employment terms and benefits
• Multilingual support for both employers and employees

Ongoing HR and Compliance Support

• Guidance on performance management best practices
• Support for handling any employment relations issues
• Continuous monitoring of changing employment regulations
• Administration of leaves, benefits, and special requests
• Assistance with work-from-home arrangements and equipment provision

Cost and Time Efficiency

• Elimination of entity setup costs (€10,000+ for limited liability company)
• No need for local accounting, legal, and HR infrastructure
• Reduced time-to-hire (days instead of months)
• Predictable monthly service fees
• Ability to test the Italian market without long-term commitments

With Asanify, you can focus on integrating the exceptional craftsmanship and expertise of Italian leather goods developers into your product line, while we handle all the complexities of compliant employment in Italy.

FAQs: Hiring Leather Goods Product Developers in Italy

What is the average salary for a Leather Goods Product Developer in Italy?

The average salary ranges from €35,000 to €55,000 annually for mid-level leather goods product developers in Italy. Entry-level positions typically start around €25,000-€35,000, while senior developers with 7+ years of experience can earn €55,000-€80,000. Master craftspeople and development directors with 10+ years of experience may command €80,000-€120,000+, particularly at prestigious luxury brands.

Which regions in Italy are best for finding leather goods expertise?

Tuscany (particularly Florence and the surrounding areas) is the epicenter of Italian leather craftsmanship, home to many prestigious brands and specialized workshops. Other significant regions include Marche (known for footwear), Veneto (especially around Venice), Campania (Naples area), and Lombardy (Milan). Each region has distinct specializations and traditions in leather working.

Do I need to establish a legal entity to hire leather goods talent in Italy?

No, you don’t need to establish a legal entity. Using an Employer of Record (EOR) like Asanify allows you to compliantly hire Italian leather goods professionals without setting up a local entity, saving significant time and resources while ensuring full compliance with Italian labor laws.

What education or training background should I look for in Italian leather goods developers?

Look for graduates from specialized institutions like Polimoda (Florence), Instituto Marangoni (Milan), or ISIA (Florence). Many excellent developers also come through traditional apprenticeship pathways at established workshops or leather goods companies. For technical roles, practical experience often outweighs formal education, particularly for master craftspeople who may have trained through Italy’s traditional bottega system.

How does Italian employment law affect hiring leather goods professionals?

Italian employment law provides strong worker protections, including restrictions on termination, mandatory notice periods, severance provisions (TFR), and extensive benefits. The fashion and leather goods sector may have applicable collective bargaining agreements (CCNLs) that establish additional requirements for working hours, minimum wages, and job classifications.

What are the mandatory benefits for employees in Italy?

Mandatory benefits include social security contributions (approximately 30% of gross salary paid by the employer), annual paid leave (minimum 4 weeks), paid sick leave, maternity/paternity leave, thirteenth month salary (paid in December), and severance pay (TFR) provisions. Some fashion industry collective agreements may provide additional sector-specific benefits.

Can Italian leather goods developers work effectively in remote arrangements?

While possible, remote work presents unique challenges for leather goods development due to its tactile nature. Effective remote collaboration requires specialized protocols for material assessment, sample shipping, and detailed documentation. A hybrid approach with periodic in-person collaboration for critical development stages often proves most effective, particularly for complex or premium products.

How should I handle intellectual property rights for designs developed by Italian craftspeople?

Clear contracts are essential, explicitly stating ownership of designs, patterns, and technical innovations. Italian law recognizes both economic rights (typically transferred to the employer) and moral rights (attribution, which may remain with the creator). Consider the cultural context where skilled craftspeople often expect some form of recognition for their contributions to distinctive designs.

What notice periods apply when terminating employment in Italy?

Notice periods vary based on the employee’s seniority, level, and applicable collective agreement, but typically range from 15 days to 4 months for professional roles in the fashion industry. These notice periods apply regardless of whether termination is initiated by the employer or employee, except in cases of termination for cause.

How long does it typically take to recruit quality leather goods developers in Italy?

The recruitment process typically takes 4-8 weeks for specialized leather goods roles. Timing depends on the specificity of skills required, seniority level, and location. Highly specialized positions or master craftspeople may require longer searches, while entry to mid-level developers can often be identified more quickly, particularly through industry networks and specialized educational institutions.

What’s the best approach to assess a candidate’s technical leather working skills?

A multi-faceted assessment is most effective: review their portfolio of past work, conduct technical interviews focusing on material knowledge and construction techniques, request specific material or construction samples if possible, and check references with previous employers or clients. For senior roles, consider a paid sample development project to evaluate both technical skills and communication abilities.

Are there specific legal considerations for hiring leather craftspeople as contractors versus employees?

Italian authorities strictly scrutinize independent contractor relationships and may reclassify them as employment if certain criteria are met (such as working exclusively for one company, following set schedules, or using company equipment). Misclassification risks include significant financial penalties and mandatory employment conversion. For ongoing product development roles, proper employment is typically the safer approach.

Conclusion

Hiring leather goods product developers from Italy provides global companies with access to unparalleled craftsmanship, material expertise, and design sensibility rooted in centuries of tradition. Italian leather professionals bring a unique combination of technical precision, aesthetic sensitivity, and production knowledge that can significantly elevate product quality and brand perception.

While navigating Italian employment regulations and cultural nuances presents certain challenges, the strategic advantages of Italian leather expertise make it a worthwhile investment for companies committed to premium quality and authentic craftsmanship. The key to success lies in understanding the specific skills, regional specializations, and working approaches that define Italy’s leather goods ecosystem.

For companies looking to access this exceptional talent pool without establishing an Italian entity, Asanify’s Employer of Record solution provides a streamlined path to compliant employment. Our comprehensive services handle all aspects of legal employment, payroll processing, benefits administration, and ongoing compliance, allowing you to focus on the creative and technical collaboration with your Italian leather goods developers.

Whether you’re launching a new leather goods collection, elevating your existing product line, or incorporating authentic Italian craftsmanship into your brand, partnering with Italian leather goods developers—supported by the right employment infrastructure—can be a transformative step for your business.

Not to be considered as tax, legal, financial or HR advice. Regulations change over time so please consult a lawyer, accountant  or Labour Law  expert for specific guidance.