In the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), there is no specific law that mandates vacation leave. However, many employers offer paid vacation as part of their benefits package. The common practice often aligns with US labor standards, providing employees with 1-2 weeks of paid vacation annually, which increases with the length of service.

Accumulation of Vacation Leave

Typically, vacation leave accrues over time. The rate at which it accumulates depends on the policies set by the employer.

Planning Vacation Leave

The scheduling of vacation leave is usually a mutual agreement between the employer and the employee. Both operational needs and employee preferences are taken into consideration during this process.

Key Points to Remember

It's important to note that there is no law in the CNMI that specifically requires employers to provide vacation leave. Many employers in the CNMI choose to follow common US practices regarding vacation leave. The specific provisions for vacation leave are outlined in individual employment contracts or company handbooks.

The Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. commonwealth in the Pacific Ocean, observe several public holidays throughout the year.

New Year's Day

This holiday is celebrated on January 1st, marking the start of the new year.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

This day is observed on the third Monday in January, in honor of the civil rights leader.

Presidents' Day

Celebrated on the third Monday in February, this day honors all U.S. presidents.

Commonwealth Covenant Day

This holiday is observed on March 24th, commemorating the establishment of the commonwealth.

Good Friday

The date of Good Friday varies each year, falling in either March or April. It commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Memorial Day

This day is observed on the last Monday in May, honoring those who have died in military service.

Independence Day

Celebrated on July 4th, this day marks the U.S.'s declaration of independence from Great Britain.

Labor Day

This holiday, observed on the first Monday in September, honors the contributions of workers.

Citizenship Day

This day is celebrated on November 4th, marking the day the Northern Mariana Islands became a U.S. commonwealth.

Veterans Day

Observed on November 11th, this day honors all U.S. military veterans.

Thanksgiving Day

This holiday is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, giving thanks for the year's blessings.

Constitution Day

This day is observed on December 8th, commemorating the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.

Christmas Day

Celebrated on December 25th, this holiday commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ.

In the Northern Mariana Islands, there are several types of leave that employees may be entitled to, although not all are mandated by law.

Annual Leave

While not mandated by CNMI law, many employers offer paid vacation leave (often 1-2 weeks) as part of their benefits package, potentially aligning with typical US standards.

Sick Leave

There's no specific legislation guaranteeing paid sick leave in the CNMI. However, some employers might offer it as a benefit. The CNMI Sick Leave Bank exists for government employees (1 CMC § 8260).

Maternity Leave

CNMI and US federal law might intersect here. Employers may be subject to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) under certain conditions, potentially offering unpaid maternity leave with job protection.

Paternity Leave

No specific CNMI paternity leave exists. Potentially, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) could apply in specific situations.

Bereavement Leave

Not mandated by CNMI law but might be offered by some employers.

Important Considerations

There isn't a single labor code that dictates all leave rights in the CNMI. In some cases, like the potential application of the FMLA, US federal labor laws might extend to the CNMI. Your specific leave entitlements are best determined by consulting your employment contract or company policies.