How much paid vacation am I entitled to in Canada?

Most provinces require a minimum of 2 weeks (10 days) of paid vacation per year after completing 12 months of continuous employment. After several years of service, many provinces require 3 weeks. Check your province's employment standards for specific requirements.

What happens to unused vacation when I leave my job?

Unused vacation time must be paid out upon termination. You receive both the vacation pay you've accrued and payment for any unused vacation days at your regular rate of pay.

Do vacation rules vary by province?

Yes, vacation rules vary by province. While most provinces require 2 weeks minimum, the requirements for 3 weeks and the timing of when it applies differ. Some provinces also have industry-specific rules. Always check your province's employment standards.

How does vacation work for part-time employees?

Part-time employees receive proportional vacation based on hours worked. If you work 20 hours per week (half of full-time), you receive half the vacation entitlement. Vacation pay is calculated as a percentage of your earnings.

Canada Paid Leave Rules - Your Complete Guide

Q: What is vacation pay in Canada?

Vacation pay is additional compensation paid on top of your regular salary. The standard rate is 4% of gross earnings for the first 5 years, and 6% after 5 years. This is paid when you take vacation or upon termination.

Q: Can my employer decide when I take vacation?

Employers can set specific vacation periods for operational needs, but they must allow employees to take vacation within a reasonable time after entitlement. Employers should consult with employees when possible, especially for longer vacations.

Comprehensive guide to paid leave rules in Canada. Understand your legal entitlements to vacation time and pay, provincial variations, accrual rules, and employer obligations under Canadian employment standards.

Legal Framework

Canadian paid leave (vacation) is governed by provincial employment standards legislation. The federal Canada Labour Code applies to federally regulated industries, while each province has its own standards. Most provinces require a minimum of 2 weeks (10 days) of paid vacation per year after completing 12 months of continuous employment.

Vacation Entitlement

After completing 12 months of continuous employment, employees are entitled to at least 2 weeks of paid vacation. Some provinces require more: for example, after 5-6 years of service, many provinces require 3 weeks. Vacation entitlement increases with years of service in most jurisdictions.

Vacation Pay

In addition to vacation time, employees receive vacation pay. The standard rate is 4% of gross earnings for the first 5 years of employment, and 6% after 5 years. This is paid out when you take vacation or upon termination. Vacation pay is separate from your regular salary.

Accrual and Timing

Vacation entitlement accrues based on months worked. After completing your first year, you become entitled to the full annual vacation. Vacation can typically be taken after the accrual period, and employers must allow vacation to be taken within a reasonable time frame.

Provincial Variations

Vacation rules vary by province. For example, Saskatchewan requires 3 weeks after 10 years, while Quebec requires 3 weeks after 3 years. Some provinces have different rules for specific industries. Always check your province's employment standards for specific requirements.

Employer Obligations

Employers must provide vacation time and pay according to provincial standards. They must allow employees to take vacation within a reasonable time after entitlement, though they can set specific dates for operational needs. Employers cannot require employees to work during vacation without consent.