Dealing with Sick Leave During Your Annual Vacation

Have you ever experienced your long-awaited annual vacation being cut short due to sickness? It’s frustrating and leaves us wondering what happens to unused vacation days. In this blog, we’ll explore what to do when sick leave interrupts your annual leave and how to make the most of your time off.

Understanding Annual Leave Entitlement

The length of workers’ employment determines their entitlement to annual leave in Croatia. Employees who are new or have had a gap of over eight days between employments are eligible for the “full” annual leave after six months of continuous employment. On the other hand, employees with prior service receive a proportionate amount of annual leave based on their length of service.

Setting Up Your Annual Leave Schedule

The employer determines the annual leave schedule, following work regulations and agreements, and should notify workers at least fifteen days before the vacation. This ensures a smooth process without overwhelming the employer with individual schedules.

What Happens When Sick Leave Interrupts Annual Leave?

If you fall sick during your annual leave and have an official medical certificate, your vacation gets interrupted, and you are on sick leave from then onwards. The days spent on sick leave don’t count towards your annual leave duration, and you can use the unused days later.

Returning to Work After Sick Leave

The company expects you to return to work after sick leave. Your annual leave aims to recharge your energy and maintain your physical and mental well-being, ensuring you’re ready to tackle your work responsibilities.

Managing Remaining Annual Leave

If your annual leave is cut short due to sickness, you must return to work on the day your vacation would have ended regularly. The remaining vacation days can be used later, in agreement with your employer.

Flexibility in Vacation Scheduling

If your situation changes, preventing you from using your vacation as planned (e.g., due to illness), you and your employer can agree on an alternative schedule. Just make sure your employer informs you at least 15 days in advance.

Prioritize Your Well-being

Although sick leave can sometimes disrupt our vacation plans, understanding your rights and communication with your employer can help you navigate these situations better. Prioritize your well-being and enjoy a well-deserved break while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.