In Slovakia, the Slovak Labor Code is the main law that outlines the rights of employees regarding vacation leave. Here are the key points:

Annual Leave

Employees are entitled to a minimum of 4 weeks of paid annual leave each calendar year. For those over 33 years old, the minimum entitlement increases to 5 weeks of annual leave. The leave entitlement accrues proportionally throughout the year. This is outlined in the Slovak Labour Code, Section 100 and onwards.

Important Considerations

Employers typically decide when vacation leave is taken, but they should consider the preferences of their employees where possible. Certain groups of workers, such as those with disabilities or those working in hazardous conditions, may be eligible for additional vacation days.

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

National Holidays

• New Year's Day: Celebrated on January 1st, it marks the beginning of the new year.
• Epiphany: This religious holiday is observed on January 6th.
• Day of the Establishment of the Slovak Republic: This national holiday is also celebrated on January 1st.
• Constitution Day of the Slovak Republic: This day, marking the adoption of the Slovak constitution, is celebrated on September 1st.
• Our Lady of Sorrows Day (Patron Saint of Slovakia): Celebrated on September 15th, this day honors the patron saint of Slovakia.
• All Saints' Day: This religious holiday is observed on November 1st.
• Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day: This national holiday is celebrated on November 17th.
• Christmas Eve: Celebrated on December 24th, this day marks the eve of Christmas.
• Christmas Day: This religious holiday, marking the birth of Jesus Christ, is celebrated on December 25th.
• St. Stephen's Day: Celebrated on December 26th, this day honors St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr.

Religious Holidays (Dates Vary)

• Good Friday: This religious holiday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
• Easter Sunday: This day celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• Easter Monday: This day is the day after Easter Sunday.
• Cyril and Methodius Day: Celebrated on July 5th, this day honors Saints Cyril and Methodius, who brought Christianity to the Slavic peoples.

In Slovakia, the primary legislation outlining the various types of leave available to employees is the Slovak Labor Code. The main categories of leave include annual leave, sick leave, maternity leave, parental leave, and other types of leave such as leave for personal obstacles, study leave, and public service leave.

Annual Leave

Employees are entitled to a minimum of 4 weeks of paid vacation leave per year, and 5 weeks for employees over 33 years of age. This is outlined in Section 100 and onwards of the Slovak Labour Code.

Sick Leave

Employees may be entitled to paid sick leave. Compensation rates and potential durations may vary depending on the nature of illness and other factors. A medical certification is generally required, especially for extended absences.

Maternity Leave

Female employees are entitled to 34 weeks of paid maternity leave. The compensation for this leave is paid by the Social Security system.

Parental Leave

Up to 3 years of parental leave may be available to either parent to care for a young child. The duration may be extended in cases of caring for a child with a disability. Depending on selected duration and circumstances, this leave may be unpaid or partially compensated by the Social Security system.

Other Types of Leave

Short leaves may be granted for events like medical appointments, family emergencies, or attending a wedding/funeral. This is referred to as leave for personal obstacles. Study leave may be available for employees pursuing education relevant to their employment. Public service leave may be granted for civic duties such as jury service or holding an elected office.

Important Considerations

Specific eligibility requirements may apply depending on the type of leave and length of service.