Understanding and adhering to Pakistan's leave and vacation policies is crucial for businesses operating in the country. These regulations are designed to protect employee rights and ensure a fair and equitable work environment. Navigating these policies can be complex, but a clear understanding is essential for compliance and maintaining positive employee relations. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the key aspects of vacation and leave policies in Pakistan as of 2025.
Annual Vacation Leave
Pakistani labor law mandates that employees are entitled to annual leave, also known as vacation leave or earned leave. The specific amount of leave depends on the nature of the work and the length of service. Generally, workers are entitled to a minimum of 14 consecutive days of annual leave with full pay after completing one year of continuous service. For workers employed in factories, the entitlement is typically one day for every 20 days of work performed. Journalists are entitled to one month of paid leave. It's important to note that these are minimum standards, and employers may offer more generous leave policies.
- Minimum annual leave: 14 consecutive days after one year of service (general rule)
- Factory workers: One day for every 20 days of work
- Journalists: One month of paid leave
Public Holidays
Pakistan observes a number of public holidays each year, providing employees with paid time off. The exact dates of these holidays may vary depending on the sighting of the moon for Islamic holidays. Here's a list of the generally observed public holidays in Pakistan:
| Holiday | Date (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Kashmir Day | February 5 |
| Pakistan Day | March 23 |
| Labour Day | May 1 |
| Eid-ul-Fitr | Varies |
| Eid-ul-Azha | Varies |
| Independence Day | August 14 |
| Ashura (9th and 10th Muharram) | Varies |
| Eid Milad-un-Nabi | Varies |
| Quaid-e-Azam Day/Christmas | December 25 |
Sick Leave
Pakistani law provides for sick leave to allow employees to recover from illness or injury. The specific regulations regarding sick leave can vary depending on provincial laws and company policies. Typically, employees are entitled to a certain number of days of paid sick leave per year, often with the requirement of a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner. The amount of paid sick leave and the percentage of salary paid during sick leave can vary. Many companies offer between 8 to 16 days of paid sick leave per year.
- Requirement: Medical certificate often required
- Entitlement: Varies based on provincial laws and company policies
- Typical Range: 8-16 days of paid sick leave per year
Parental Leave
Parental leave in Pakistan includes maternity, paternity, and adoption leave, designed to support employees in caring for new children.
Maternity Leave
Female employees are entitled to maternity leave with pay. The duration and conditions of maternity leave are governed by the Maternity Benefit Ordinance, 1958, and other relevant labor laws. Typically, female employees are entitled to 12 weeks (84 days) of maternity leave. Some organizations may offer extended leave.
- Duration: 12 weeks (84 days)
- Eligibility: Typically requires a qualifying period of service
Paternity Leave
Paternity leave is also available, though the specific duration and conditions can vary. In many organizations, paternity leave is shorter than maternity leave, often ranging from 7 to 14 days.
- Duration: Typically 7-14 days
- Availability: Increasingly common, but not always mandated by law
Adoption Leave
Adoption leave policies are less standardized but are becoming more common in progressive organizations. The duration and terms of adoption leave can vary significantly.
Other Types of Leave
Besides annual, sick, and parental leave, employees in Pakistan may also be eligible for other types of leave, depending on company policies and specific circumstances.
- Bereavement Leave: Provided in the event of the death of a close family member. The duration varies but is typically a few days.
- Study Leave: Granted to employees pursuing further education or professional development. Often unpaid or partially paid, and subject to employer approval.
- Sabbatical Leave: Longer periods of leave for personal or professional development, typically unpaid and offered at the employer's discretion.
- Casual Leave: Short duration leave for personal reasons. Usually 7-10 days per year.
