Minimum statutory annual leave and public holidays range from as many as 44 days in some countries to just 28 in others according to new research.

5 June 2007

AMSTERDAM – Holiday allowances vary significantly between European countries, according to research by Mercer Human Resource Consulting, with minimum statutory annual leave and public holidays ranging from as many as 44 days in some countries to just 28 in others.

Employees in Finland receive the most holidays clocking in at 44 days per year, while those in France receive only 40. Germany and Spain sit in the middle with 34 and 36 days respectively. The Netherlands falls amongst the lowest in Europe with only 28 days holiday.

The figures are based on statutory entitlements for an employee working five days a week, with 10 years’ service.

"Holiday entitlements are a lottery, with some countries offering over 60% more days off than others. Even though efforts have been made to harmonise employment practices in the EU, there are still large disparities in holiday allowances between the member states," said Mark Sullivan, worldwide partner at Mercer.

Annual leave

The minimum amount of annual leave laid down by the European Union is 20 days, with most countries ranging between 20 and 30 days. Belgium, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands and the UK offer the minimum 20 days. The most generous countries, Finland and France, allow 30 days. Spain and Germany fall either side of the EU average of 23 days with 22 and 24 days respectively. Employers often offer more generous leave allowances but this is determined by industry and seniority. 

"While employers are only obliged to give the statutory minimum amount of leave, many offer extra days to help attract and retain staff. Generous holiday allowances are an increasingly attractive benefit, as more employees seek to improve their work-life balance," said Mr Sullivan

Public holidays

Public holidays vary between countries and regions according to local traditions. There are also wide variations in the local implementation of employment practices governing public holidays. EU citizens are permitted to take the day off, with the exception of France, Sweden and the UK. In these countries, employers generally grant public holidays but have the right to ask employers to work or take it as part of their annual leave.
 
"Employers trying to co-ordinate business operations across the EU are caught in a maze of legislation when it comes to holidays," commented Mr Sullivan. "Public holidays tend to be rooted in local tradition or religious beliefs, so it can be difficult to change practices. With the increasing cultural diversity of the European workforce there is pressure for greater flexibility around public holidays."

Special leave

Employers in some EU states are required by law to grant special leave in exceptional circumstances such as marriages or the death of a close friend or relative. Even when not required by law, many employers will provide additional leave for special circumstances.

This research is primarily based on information from Mercer's Worldwide Benefit & Employment Guidelines (WBEG) reports. For further information, please visit www.imercer.com/wbeg

[Copyright Expatica news 2007]