Understanding Annual Leave Entitlement in Singapore
Navigating annual leave entitlements in Singapore can be confusing. This comprehensive guide clarifies your rights and responsibilities as an employee, addressing common questions and concerns.
How Many Days of Paid Annual Leave Am I Entitled To?
In Singapore, your paid annual leave is determined by the Employment Act (EA) and your length of service. The minimum entitlement is:
- 7 days after working for at least 3 months in your first year.
If an employee has worked at least 3 months but less than a year, their annual leave entitlement of 7 days is pro-rated based on the number of complete months worked, rather than a full 7 days if they haven't completed a full year of service.
- An additional day for each subsequent year of service, up to a maximum of 14 days after 8 years.
| Year of Service | Days of Annual Leave |
|---|---|
| 1st | 7 |
| 2nd | 8 |
| 3rd | 9 |
| 4th | 10 |
| 5th | 11 |
| 6th | 12 |
| 7th | 13 |
| 8th and thereafter | 14 |
If you haven't completed a full year, your leave is pro-rated based on the completed months of service.
What is Annual Leave Entitlement in Singapore?
Eligibility
You must work for your employer for at least three months to be eligible for annual leave.
Entitlement
The first year grants a minimum of 7 days. This increases by one day each year, reaching a maximum of 14 days after 8 years.
Calculation
Annual leave is calculated based on completed years of service. See the table above for details.
Pro-ration
If you haven't completed a full year, your annual leave is pro-rated based on completed months. This applies even during probation or if you leave the company mid-year.
Additional Leave
Employers may offer more leave than the statutory minimum of 14 days as a benefit.
How is Annual Leave Calculated for New Employees in Their First Year?
Eligibility
You need at least 3 months of service to qualify for paid annual leave.
Minimum Entitlement
The minimum is 7 days after 3 months of service.
Pro-ration
The formula for pro-rated leave is: (Number of months of service / 12 months) * Days of annual leave entitlement. Results are rounded up to the nearest whole day (except for results less than 0.5 days, which are rounded down).
Example Calculation
An employee starting January 1st and leaving July 15th (6 months) with a 7-day entitlement would receive (6/12) * 7 = 3.5 days, rounded up to 4 days.
Can My Employer Reject My Annual Leave Request?
While employers can't arbitrarily deny leave, they can reject or adjust dates due to operational needs (e.g., peak periods, insufficient staffing). They should propose alternative dates and maintain fair, consistent practices. Open communication is crucial.
What Happens to Unused Annual Leave When I Resign?
You can usually encash or clear unused leave upon resignation. Encashment is calculated at your gross rate of pay based on your last drawn salary. However, unused leave is forfeited if you are terminated for misconduct. You can also use annual leave to offset your notice period.
Can Annual Leave Be Carried Forward to the Next Year?
This depends on whether you're covered under Part IV of the Employment Act (monthly basic salary of $4,500 or less for workmen, or $2,600 or less for non-workmen). If so, unused leave can be carried forward to the next 12-month leave cycle, but encashment after this period is at the employer's discretion. For employees not covered under Part IV, the employment contract dictates the policy.
Am I Entitled to Annual Leave During My Probation Period?
Yes, after completing at least 3 months of service, you are entitled to pro-rated annual leave, regardless of probation status. If your probation is less than 3 months, leave is at your employer's discretion.
How Does Part-Time Employment Affect Annual Leave Entitlement?
Part-time employees are entitled to pro-rated annual leave based on their working hours compared to a full-time employee. This can be calculated using a pro-rata basis or an accrual system.
Formula (pro-rata): (Part-time hours/week * 52 weeks) / (Full-time hours/week * 52 weeks) * Full-time annual leave hours
What Happens if I Fall Sick During My Annual Leave?
You can ask your employer to switch to sick leave, but this is at their discretion.
Can My Employer Force Me to Clear My Annual Leave?
No. Employers cannot force you to take leave at a specific time. While they can reject requests based on operational needs, they cannot compel you to take leave against your will.
