In Singapore, the law stipulates that employees are entitled to 7 days of paid annual leave during their first year of service with an employer. This entitlement increases with each subsequent year of service, reaching a maximum of 14 days, depending on the length of service.

For those employees who have not yet completed a full year of service, their leave is calculated on a pro-rata basis.

Key Factors to Consider

• Uninterrupted Employment: The entitlement to leave is dependent on continuous service with the same employer.
• Carry Over of Unused Leave: Generally, unused leave cannot be carried forward to the next year. However, the encashment (financial compensation) of unused leave may be permitted, depending on company policies or specific employment contracts.
• Leave Scheduling: While employers often determine the vacation schedules, they are required to take into account the preferences of the employees and the operational needs of the company.

In Singapore, public holidays are a mix of secular celebrations like New Year's Day and National Day, and religious holidays from the various faiths practiced in the country.

New Year's Day

This is celebrated on January 1st.

Chinese New Year

This holiday spans two days and the dates vary based on the lunar calendar.

Good Friday

The date for Good Friday varies based on the Christian calendar.

Labor Day

Labor Day is celebrated on May 1st.

Vesak Day

The date for Vesak Day varies based on the Buddhist lunar calendar.

Hari Raya Puasa

This holiday marks the end of Ramadan and its date varies based on the Islamic calendar.

Hari Raya Haji

The date for Hari Raya Haji varies based on the Islamic calendar.

National Day

National Day is celebrated on August 9th.

Deepavali

The date for Deepavali varies based on the Hindu calendar.

Christmas Day

Christmas Day is celebrated on December 25th.

Note

Dates for religious holidays change annually, as they follow their respective lunar calendars. It's always helpful to check the specific dates closer to the time, especially when planning travel.

In Singapore, there are several types of leave available to employees. These include annual leave, sick leave, maternity leave, paternity leave, childcare leave, and shared parental leave. Each type of leave has its own entitlements and legal references.

Annual Leave

Employees are entitled to 7 days of paid annual leave for their first year of service, increasing with length of service up to a maximum of 14 days. This is referenced in the Employment Act, Part IV.

Sick Leave

If an employee has served at least three months, a maximum of 14 days of paid sick leave is available per year. This extends to 60 days of paid hospitalization leave. Medical certification is required. This is also referenced in the Employment Act, Part IV.

Maternity Leave

Female employees are eligible for 16 weeks of government-paid maternity leave after working for their employer for at least three months. This is referenced in the Employment Act, and the Child Development Co-Savings Act.

Paternity Leave

Eligible male employees are entitled to two weeks of government-paid paternity leave. This is referenced in the Employment Act, and the Child Development Co-Savings Act.

Childcare Leave

Eligible employees are entitled to six days of childcare leave per year.

Shared Parental Leave

A portion of the mother's maternity leave can be shared with the father.

It's important to note that specific leaves may have eligibility requirements related to length of service or other conditions outlined in the Employment Act. Additionally, employers may offer more generous leave provisions in addition to those mandated by law.