🏖️ Can I choose when to take my holidays?

With conditions

Quick answer

Not entirely: the employer decides the period, but the right is yours. You're entitled to at least 4 weeks of paid holidays a year (Lgs. Decree 66/2003), which the collective agreement can improve. But you don't freely choose the dates: the period is set by the employer, taking into account the company's needs and, as far as possible, the worker's. At least 2 weeks must be taken, even consecutively, in the accrual year; the rest within the following 18 months. Holidays can't be replaced with money (not paid out), except for the untaken part on termination. They serve physical and mental recovery, so must actually be taken.

📋 The rules

At least 4 weeks of holidays a year (improvable by agreement)
The period is set by the employer (company and worker needs)
At least 2 weeks in the accrual year
The rest within 18 months
Not payable in cash, except on termination

🔓 Exceptions

The collective agreement can provide more days and rules
Illness during holidays: generally suspends them, to be recovered
Company shutdown: the period can be imposed by the employer

⚠️ Penalties & fines

The employer can't absolutely deny holidays: blocking them exposes them to liability. At the same time, being absent without authorisation (taking unapproved holidays) can be an unjustified absence and be sanctioned. The failure to take the minimum 4 weeks is also subject to oversight, as holidays protect health. On termination, accrued, untaken holidays are paid. In case of a dispute over dates, it's best to clarify in writing with the employer and, if needed, involve the union.

📎 Official sources

Last verified: 2026-06-20

❓ Frequently asked

How many holidays am I entitled to a year?

At least 4 weeks of paid holidays a year, which the collective agreement can improve. At least 2 weeks must be taken in the accrual year, even consecutively; the rest within the 18 months following the end of the reference year.

Can I decide when to take my holidays?

Not freely. The holiday period is set by the employer, taking into account the company's needs and, as far as possible, the worker's. It's often agreed, but the final decision rests with the employer.

Can I get my holidays paid instead of taking them?

No, during employment: holidays must actually be taken and can't be paid out. Only on termination are accrued, untaken holidays paid in the final settlement, along with the rest of what's owed.

If I fall ill during holidays, do I lose them?

Generally no. Illness arising during holidays, if properly certified, suspends the running of the holidays, which you can recover at another time. You must, however, notify and certify the illness per the applicable rules.

Can the company shut down and impose holidays?

Yes. In case of a company shutdown (e.g. in summer or holiday periods), the employer can put workers on holiday then, respecting the notice. The collective agreement can govern whether and how the period is fixed or agreed.

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