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Serbia

Vacation and Leave Policies

Understand the regulations on vacation and other types of leave in Serbia

Holiday leave

In Serbia, the Labor Law stipulates that full-time employees are entitled to a minimum of 20 working days of paid annual leave for each calendar year. This is outlined in Article 73 of the Serbian Labor Law.

Accrual and Scheduling

Employees accrue leave throughout the year and gain the right to utilize their annual leave after one month of continuous employment. The scheduling of vacation leave is often determined by employers, but they are expected to consider the preferences of their employees. As a rule, employees must take at least two consecutive weeks of leave in the given calendar year.

Additional Leave

The Serbian Labor Law also provides for additional leave days for employees based on certain factors. These factors may include work experience, disability status, or working conditions. Employees may therefore be entitled to more than the minimum 20 days of annual leave.

Public holidays

Serbia is known for its diverse mix of national, religious, and commemorative holidays.

National Holidays

Serbia celebrates several national holidays throughout the year. These include:

  • New Year's Day: Celebrated on January 1st and 2nd, this holiday marks the beginning of the new year.
  • Statehood Day: This holiday, observed on February 15th and 16th, commemorates the establishment of the Serbian state.
  • International Workers' Day: Celebrated on May 1st and 2nd, this holiday honors workers and their contributions.
  • Armistice Day: Observed on November 11th, this holiday marks the end of World War I.

Orthodox Christian Holidays

Serbia, being a predominantly Orthodox Christian country, also observes several religious holidays. The dates for these holidays vary each year. They include:

  • Orthodox Christmas: Celebrated on January 7th, this holiday commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ.
  • Orthodox Good Friday: This holiday marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
  • Orthodox Easter: This holiday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
  • Orthodox Easter Monday: This holiday is the day after Orthodox Easter.

Other Holidays

In addition to national and religious holidays, many Serbian families celebrate individual patron saint days, known as Slava. These are considered personal or family holidays, and the dates vary.

Types of leave

In Serbia, the Labor Law outlines various types of leave available to employees. These include annual leave, sick leave, maternity leave, paternity leave, parental leave, and other types of leave such as bereavement leave, marriage leave, leave for blood donation, professional development leave, and special leave.

Annual Leave

Employees are entitled to a minimum of 20 working days of paid vacation leave per year.

Sick Leave

Employees are entitled to paid sick leave. The compensation rates and potential durations may vary, often depending on the nature and severity of the illness. A medical certification is required, especially for extended absences.

Maternity Leave

Female employees are entitled to a period of maternity leave. The duration and compensation are often influenced by the number of children they already have and other factors.

Paternity Leave

Fathers are entitled to paternity leave. The durations and specific provisions may be outlined in collective agreements or individual contracts.

Parental Leave

Parental leave may be available for either parent to care for a young child. Specific provisions can vary and are often outlined in collective agreements.

Other Types of Leave

  • Bereavement Leave: A short leave may be granted for the death of an immediate family member.
  • Marriage Leave
  • Leave for Blood Donation
  • Professional Development Leave
  • Special Leave: Leave may be available for reasons like civic duties, personal emergencies, etc.

Important Considerations

Specific eligibility requirements may apply depending on the type of leave and length of service. Some workplaces may offer more generous or specific leave provisions through collective bargaining agreements.

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