Under the Rwandan law the probation period cannot exceed three (3) months.  However, after the written evaluation of the employee’s performance notified to the employee, the employer can for valid reasons related to the nature of work, employee’s performance and conduct, decide that an employee retakes the probation for a period not exceeding three (3) months.

Hence, the total probation period cannot be extended to more than six (6) months in total.

In case the total six months as provided for by the law expire and it is proved to be conclusive, the employee must immediately be offered employment and notified in writing by the employer.

However, in case the probation period proves that an employee is not competent based on written performance evaluation and notified to the employee, the employer terminates the employment contract without notice.

Apart from the salary for which the employee has worked for, such termination does not entail the payment of terminal benefits.

In conclusion, the probation period can only be valid for six months, in a situation that you are offered another contract/agreement. This implies there is an employment contract between the employer and employee.