In Fiji, the guidelines for employee rights concerning vacation leave, also known as annual leave, are provided by the Employment Relations Act 2007 (ERA).

Minimum Vacation Entitlement

Every employee is entitled to a minimum of 10 working days of paid annual leave for each complete year of service.

Accrual and Eligibility

Vacation leave accrues on a monthly basis throughout the year of employment. However, employees typically cannot avail of their full leave entitlement until they've completed the full 12-month period. The employer usually determines the timing of vacation leave, considering both workplace needs and the employee's preferences.

Compensation

During vacation periods, employees must receive their regular salary in full.

Unused Leave Carryover

Employees can carry over a maximum of 5 unused leave days to the following year. Any additional unused leave at the end of the year is forfeited.

Fiji is known for its diverse mix of national, religious, and cultural holidays. These holidays are officially recognized and celebrated throughout the country.

Fixed Date Holidays

• New Year's Day (January 1st): This day marks the beginning of the calendar year.
• Prophet Muhammad's Birthday: The date for this holiday varies as it is based on the Islamic calendar.
• National Youth Day: The date for this holiday varies, but it is usually observed in March.
• Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna Day: This day honors a significant Fijian historical figure. The date varies but is usually observed on the last Monday of May.
• Constitution Day (September 7th): This day commemorates the adoption of Fiji's constitution.
• Fiji Day (October 10th): This day celebrates Fiji's independence from British rule in 1970.
• Christmas Day (December 25th): This Christian holiday celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
• Boxing Day (December 26th): This day is observed the day after Christmas Day.

Holidays With Variable Dates

• Good Friday: This Christian holiday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The exact date varies yearly and falls in either March or April.
• Easter Sunday: This Christian holiday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The exact date varies yearly and falls in either March or April.
• Diwali: This significant Hindu festival of lights has dates that vary yearly, usually falling in October or November.

In Fiji, the Employment Relations Act 2007 (ERA) outlines several types of leave available to employees.

Sick Leave

Employees are entitled to 10 working days of paid sick leave per year after completing four months of continuous service. Employers may require a medical certificate to validate the need for sick leave after three consecutive days.

Maternity Leave

Female employees are entitled to 84 days (12 weeks) of maternity leave. Eligible employees can receive maternity benefits either through statutory funds like the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) or through employer arrangements.

Paternity Leave

Fathers are entitled to 5 consecutive working days of paternity leave for the birth of a child. This leave is unpaid unless the employer has provisions for a paid policy.

Family Care Leave

Employees are entitled to up to 5 days of paid leave per year to take care of family responsibilities.

Bereavement Leave

Employees are usually entitled to paid bereavement leave in the case of the death of a close family member. The specific duration may be outlined in employment agreements or workplace policies.