In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the Labour Code, particularly the Wages Regulations Orders, outlines the vacation leave entitlements for employees.

Eligibility

Most employees are eligible for paid vacation leave after they have completed one year of continuous service with their employer. However, certain categories of workers, such as those in the agricultural and industrial sectors, may have a shorter qualifying period based on the number of days they have worked.

Entitlement

The vacation leave entitlement for domestic workers varies based on their years of service. Domestic workers with 1-5 years of service are entitled to 14 calendar days, while those with 6-10 years of service receive 21 calendar days. For other categories of workers, the specific entitlement may vary slightly depending on the industry or sector. Generally, the minimum is 14 working days of vacation leave per year.

Calculating Vacation Pay

The calculation of vacation pay is based on the employee's regular wages at the time the vacation is taken.

Important Considerations

Employers should schedule vacation leave in consultation with their employees. In some cases, unused vacation leave may be carried over or paid out, depending on the company policy or collective agreements.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, a Caribbean nation, observes a mix of national, historical, and religious holidays throughout the year.

New Year's Day

Celebrated on January 1st, it marks the beginning of the new year.

National Heroes' Day

This holiday, observed on March 14th, honors Chief Joseph Chatoyer, a national hero.

Good Friday

The date varies, but it's always the Friday before Easter Sunday, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Easter Monday

The date for this holiday varies, but it's always the day after Easter Sunday, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Labour Day

Labour Day is celebrated on May 1st, honoring workers and their contributions.

Whit Monday

The date for Whit Monday varies, but it's always 50 days after Easter, commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples of Jesus.

Carnival Monday and Tuesday

The dates for these holidays vary, typically falling in early July. They mark the beginning of the Carnival, a festive season involving public celebrations.

Emancipation Day

Celebrated on August 1st, this holiday commemorates the end of slavery.

Independence Day

Independence Day is observed on October 27th, marking the nation's independence.

Christmas Day

Christmas Day is celebrated on December 25th, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Boxing Day

Boxing Day is observed on December 26th, a day to give to the less fortunate.

In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, labor laws provide for several types of leave for employees.

Annual Vacation Leave

Employees are entitled to a minimum amount of annual vacation leave, which varies slightly based on the category of worker. Domestic workers are entitled to 14-21 calendar days, depending on length of service. Other workers are generally entitled to a minimum of 14 working days per year. This is according to the Labour Code of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Wages Regulation Orders.

Sick Leave

Employees with at least six months of service are entitled to 14 days of sick leave with full pay per year. This can be extended to 30 days for medical conditions requiring confinement. A medical certification may be required after a certain period of absence. This is also according to the Labour Code of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Wages Regulation Orders.

Maternity Leave

Female employees with at least one year of service are entitled to 13 weeks (approximately 3 months) of maternity leave. This is paid by the National Insurance Services (NIS) and is according to the Protection of Employment Act and the National Insurance Services Act.

Paternity Leave

Employees are entitled to up to 3 days of paid paternity leave, according to the Protection of Employment Act.

Other Types of Leave

Short leaves may be granted for the death of a close family member (bereavement leave). Leave may also be available for civic duties (e.g., jury duty), attending to urgent personal matters, etc. (special leave). Specifics may be outlined in employment contracts or collective agreements.

Important Considerations

Specific eligibility requirements may vary depending on the type of leave and the employee's length of service. Some workplaces may offer more generous leave provisions through collective bargaining agreements.