Annual leave is sacred for every worker, but did you know your employer can’t just cancel it, pay you off, or swap it for some other perk? Yes, you read that right! By law, annual leave is a right that cannot be denied or replaced with money, except when your employment ends and you have unused leave. You only earn the right to take annual leave after 30 days of continuous work with your employer. The minimum length of leave is 20 working days, and your employer can increase this based on company rules or your contract, considering your work experience and qualifications. But here’s the kicker: your employer decides when you take your leave, though they must consult you. If they don’t approve your leave request, they’re not breaking the law! Also, annual leave counts only working days, not weekends, holidays, or sick leave. If you get sick during your leave, it pauses and resumes after your sick leave ends. Sounds complicated? It’s not, just know your rights and duties. So next time you plan your vacation, remember — don’t let anyone steal it or pay you off! And if you thought this was a boring legal story, think again — your leave is your freedom! So, have you ever had trouble with your employer over your annual leave? Share your stories, maybe together we’ll find out who really runs the vacation show!
