Annual Leave in Bosnia and Herzegovina – Rights & Pay for 2026
The right to annual leave in Bosnia and Herzegovina is regulated by entity-level labour acts. Both the Federation of BiH and Republika Srpska have separate regulations, but both guarantee minimum rights for all employees.
1. Minimum Annual Leave in BiH
In the Federation of BiH, the Labour Act prescribes a minimum annual leave of 20 working days. In Republika Srpska the minimum is also 20 working days. Workers in particularly difficult or hazardous jobs, people with disabilities, and workers under 18 are entitled to longer leave as per collective agreements.
2. Annual Leave Pay in BiH
During annual leave, employees receive salary compensation equal to the average salary earned in the previous 3 calendar months. In the Federation of BiH, a holiday bonus (regres) is paid per collective agreement provisions. In Republika Srpska it is not legally mandatory but many collective agreements provide for it.
3. Scheduling and Taking Leave in BiH
Leave schedules are set by the employer in consultation with the employee. Leave may be taken in parts, but at least one part must last a minimum of two consecutive weeks. Unused leave must be taken by June 30 of the following year.
Frequently Asked Questions – Annual Leave in BiH
Can an employee waive the right to annual leave?
No. The right to annual leave is legally protected in both entities. Any agreement to the contrary is void.
What if I fall ill during my annual leave?
Days of sick leave during annual leave, supported by a medical certificate, are not counted as used leave days.
Am I entitled to annual leave in my first year?
Yes. You earn the full annual leave entitlement after 6 months of continuous work. Before that you accrue 1/12 per full month worked.