Annual Leave in Croatia – Rights, Pay & Rules for 2026
Every employee in Croatia has a statutory right to annual leave. The Labour Act (Official Gazette 93/14, 127/17, 98/19, 151/22) guarantees minimum annual leave, full salary compensation, and a total prohibition on waiving this right.
1. Minimum Annual Leave
Under the Croatian Labour Act, employees are entitled to a minimum of 4 weeks (20 working days) of annual leave per calendar year. Employees under 18 or with disabilities are entitled to at least 5 weeks. Collective agreements or employment contracts may provide for longer leave.
2. Annual Leave Pay
During annual leave, employees receive salary compensation equal to the average salary earned in the preceding 3 calendar months. It must not be lower than the minimum wage and is typically paid before the leave begins. Many employers also pay a holiday bonus (regres), tax-exempt up to 560 EUR in 2026.
3. Scheduling and Taking Leave
Leave schedules are agreed between the employee and employer. Leave may be taken in parts, but at least one part must be a minimum of 2 consecutive weeks. Unused leave must be taken by June 30 of the following year. Paying out leave in lieu (except on termination) is not permitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I lose my right to annual leave?
No. The right to annual leave cannot be taken away and employees cannot waive it. Any agreement to the contrary is void.
What if I get sick during annual leave?
If you fall ill during annual leave and have a medical certificate, those days are not counted as used leave – they will be rescheduled.
Do I get annual leave in my first year of work?
Yes. You are entitled to the full annual leave after 6 months of continuous employment. Before that, you earn 1/12 for each full month worked.