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Equatorial Guinea

Vacation and Leave Policies

Understand the regulations on vacation and other types of leave in Equatorial Guinea

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Holiday leave

In Equatorial Guinea, the National Labor Law (Law No. 2/1990) guarantees a right to paid vacation leave for all employees. Every employee is entitled to 30 calendar days of paid vacation leave for each year of continuous service with the same employer.

Accrual and Eligibility

Vacation leave accrues throughout the year of service. However, employees generally cannot take the leave until they've completed the full year of employment. The timing of vacation leave is determined by employers, who balance the needs of the workplace with the employee's preferences.

Compensation

Employees must receive their regular salary in full during vacation periods.

Public holidays

Equatorial Guinea celebrates a variety of national, historical, and religious holidays throughout the year.

Fixed Date Holidays

  • New Year's Day (January 1st): This day marks the start of the calendar year.
  • International Women's Day (March 8th): This day is dedicated to celebrating women's achievements and rights.
  • Good Friday (March/April): This Christian holiday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The exact date varies each year.
  • Labor Day / May Day (May 1st): This day is set aside to celebrate the contributions of workers internationally.
  • Africa Day (May 25th): This day commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity, now known as the African Union.
  • Corpus Christi (May/June): This Catholic feast celebrates the Real Presence of Jesus Christ. It is observed on the Thursday after Trinity Sunday, with the exact date changing each year.
  • President's Day (June 5th): This day celebrates the birth of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.
  • Armed Forces Day (August 3rd): This day is dedicated to honoring the country's armed forces.
  • Constitution Day (August 15th): This day commemorates the adoption of the Constitution of Equatorial Guinea.
  • Independence Day (October 12th): This day commemorates Equatorial Guinea's independence from Spain in 1968.
  • Immaculate Conception Day (December 8th): This Catholic feast day celebrates the conception of the Virgin Mary.
  • Christmas Day (December 25th): This Christian holiday celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.

Please note that the dates for holidays that depend on the religious calendar change each year. Also, businesses and services may have adjusted hours or closures during these public holidays.

Types of leave

In Equatorial Guinea, labor laws ensure that employees have access to various types of leave to cater to their personal needs and circumstances.

Vacation Leave

Employees are entitled to 30 calendar days of paid vacation annually for every year of continuous service, as mandated by Equatorial Guinea's National Labor Law (Law No. 2/1990). During vacation leave periods, employees receive full pay.

Sick Leave

Employees become eligible for paid sick leave upon completing three months of service. The exact duration may depend on employment duration and severity of the illness. Employers can require a medical certificate to validate the need for sick leave. Paid sick leave compensation is generally covered by the employer or may be provided through social security benefits depending on agreements.

Maternity Leave

Female employees are entitled to 60 days of paid maternity leave. The leave is typically split between time before and after childbirth. Eligible employees can receive maternity benefits in accordance with regulations and agreements, which may involve coverage by social security or the employer.

Other Types of Leave

Employees may be entitled to short-term paid leave in the case of the death of a close family member. Additionally, employees may be entitled to short-term leave for circumstances such as marriage, medical appointments, or civic duties. The specific provisions may depend on employment agreements or workplace policies.

It's important to note that individual employment contracts or collective agreements may offer additional leave provisions exceeding the outlined legal minimums. Always consult your specific agreement for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding leave policies in your workplace.

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