FAQs on statutory holidays

Are domestic helpers entitled to statutory holidays if they have been working for less than 3 months?

Yes, domestic helpers are entitled to statutory holidays regardless of their work duration. Employers must give domestic helpers the day off even if they have been working for less than 3 months. Legally, employers are not required to pay salary for the holiday until after the first 3 months of service. However, most employers find it more convenient and beneficial to the working relationship to give the statutory holiday leaves without making the changes to pay. 

Can I ask a domestic helper to work on a statutory holiday?

Yes, you can. However, if a domestic helper works on a statutory holiday, you must give an alternative day off within 60 days. You must also give a minimum of 48 hours notice to your domestic helper. However, we recommend giving as much notice as possible. As it’s a holiday, many domestic helpers will have special activities and outings planned.

Can I pay a domestic helper extra instead of giving them the holiday off work?

No, domestic helpers must be allowed to take the holiday or you must give another day off instead as outlined above.

What if the statutory holiday falls on a Sunday?

When a statutory holiday falls on a rest day (usually a Sunday), the next (non-holiday) day is designated as the statutory holiday instead. Domestic helpers are also still entitled to the rest day as usual.

What happens if statutory holidays and/or rest days fall during a period of annual leave?

If a statutory holiday or rest day falls in a domestic helper’s annual leave, then she must be granted another day off for that day.