Understand the regulations on vacation and other types of leave in Guadeloupe
In Guadeloupe, employees are entitled to 2.5 working days of paid vacation leave for every full month of work completed. This equates to 30 working days, or 5 weeks, per year.
Vacation leave accrues monthly throughout the reference period, which typically runs from June 1st of the previous year to May 31st of the current year. Employees are not permitted to take vacation leave until it has been accrued. However, there are instances where employers may grant leave in advance.
During vacation periods, employees are required to receive at least their usual remuneration. If outlined in their contracts or collective agreements, they may receive a more favorable amount.
While the core entitlement is the same as mainland France, there may be localized collective agreements within Guadeloupe that offer more generous vacation leave provisions. It's important to always check your individual employment contract and any relevant collective agreements applicable to your workplace for the most accurate and up-to-date details.
Guadeloupe, being a part of France, observes all the public holidays celebrated in mainland France. These include:
In addition to the national French holidays, Guadeloupe also celebrates:
Please note that the dates for holidays that depend on the religious calendar change each year. Also, regional variances may exist, but since Guadeloupe is relatively small, any regional holidays are likely to be minor observances rather than official public holidays. Businesses and services may have adjusted hours or closures during public holidays.
In Guadeloupe, employees are entitled to various types of leave.
Employees are entitled to 2.5 working days of paid vacation per month of work, totaling 30 working days (or 5 weeks) per year. Employees receive at least their usual pay during vacation leave periods, potentially more depending on agreements.
Employees become eligible for paid sick leave after fulfilling certain conditions related to social security contributions and employment duration. Paid sick leave compensation is provided by the French social security system after an initial waiting period. The amount and duration can vary based on employment history and the nature of the illness. Employers may require a medical certificate to validate the need for sick leave.
Female employees are entitled to 16 weeks of maternity leave, generally split before and after childbirth. This may be extended in cases of multiple births or complications. Eligible employees generally receive maternity benefits from France's social security system.
Fathers are entitled to 28 calendar days of paternity leave, including a mandatory 4 consecutive days. Paternity leave is compensated by the French social security system.
Following maternity/paternity leave, either parent can take parental leave to care for a young child. The duration can extend up to a few years. Parental leave may be partially compensated by the French social security depending on the length and circumstances.
Employees may be entitled to short-term paid leave in the case of the death of a close family member. Employees may also have the right to short-term leave for events like marriage, moving, or a child's illness. Furthermore, employees may have the right to take longer-term unpaid leave for personal reasons, known as sabbatical leave.
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