How much leave are employees entitled to in Sri Lanka?
Annual, casual and sick leave for shop and office employees, explained simply.
Last reviewed: 22 October 2026
Which law applies?
The Shop and Office Employees (Regulation of Employment and Remuneration) Act No. 19 of 1954 sets leave for employees of shops and offices. Workers in other sectors may be covered by Wages Board decisions or their contracts.
Annual leave
After 12 months of continuous service an employee earns 14 days of paid annual leave. In the first year, leave is usually granted on a pro-rata basis depending on the month of joining.
Casual and sick leave
Employees are generally entitled to 7 days of paid casual leave each year. Sick leave is often covered by the employment contract or company policy.
Public holidays
Employees who work on a public or mercantile holiday may be entitled to extra pay or a substitute day, depending on the applicable rules
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Contact usThis information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and rates change; please consult a qualified Attorney-at-Law for your specific situation.