Annual Leave in Serbia – Rights, Pay & Rules for 2026
Employees in Serbia have a statutory right to annual leave under the Labour Act ("Official Gazette RS", No. 24/2005 and amendments). This right is inalienable and cannot be waived or reduced by contract.
1. Minimum Annual Leave in Serbia
The Serbian Labour Act guarantees a minimum annual leave of 20 working days per calendar year. Employees under 18 are entitled to at least 24 working days. Collective agreements or company rules may provide for longer leave.
2. Annual Leave Pay in Serbia
During annual leave, employees receive earnings compensation equal to the average earnings earned in the previous 3 calendar months. Compensation may not be lower than the minimum wage. A holiday bonus (regres) is not legally mandatory in Serbia but is often included in collective agreements.
3. Scheduling and Taking Leave in Serbia
Annual leave is taken according to a schedule set by the employer. Leave may be taken in parts, but at least one part must last a minimum of two consecutive working weeks. Carried-over leave must be taken by June 30 of the following calendar year.
Frequently Asked Questions – Annual Leave in Serbia
Can an employee lose their right to annual leave?
No. The Serbian Labour Act prohibits waiving the right to annual leave. Any agreement to the contrary is void.
What happens if I get sick during annual leave?
Sick-leave days during annual leave, supported by a medical certificate, are not counted as used annual leave days.
When do I acquire the right to full annual leave?
After 6 months of continuous employment with the same employer you acquire the full annual leave entitlement.