Public Holidays & Annual Leave in Vietnam

May 13, 2024

HR & Payroll

Understanding Public Holidays in Vietnam: A Guide for Businesses and Employees

Public holidays offer important breaks throughout the year for Vietnamese workers and their families. However, they can also pose logistical and administrative considerations for businesses operating within Vietnam. This guide aims to clarify the essentials of Vietnam’s public holiday system.

Table of Contents

The Significance of Public Holidays

Vietnam’s public holidays often blend historical commemorations, traditional celebrations, and international observances. They provide time for rest, family gatherings, and cultural activities. Understanding the nature and dates of these holidays is crucial for businesses to plan operations and ensure they remain compliant with labor regulations.

Key Public Holidays in Vietnam

Vietnam observes a mix of fixed-date and lunar calendar-based holidays. Here’s a list of significant public holidays:

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year): The most important holiday in Vietnam, typically a week-long celebration in late January or early February.
Hung Kings Commemoration Day: Honors the mythical founders of Vietnam, falling on the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month.
Reunification Day (April 30th): Marks the liberation of Saigon at the end of the Vietnam War.
International Labor Day (May 1st): Celebrates the labor movement worldwide.
National Day (September 2nd): Commemorates Vietnam’s declaration of independence in 1945.

Important Note: Some public holidays, particularly those based on the lunar calendar, have dates that vary slightly from year to year.

Employer Responsibilities

Paid Leave: Employers are legally obligated to provide employees with paid time off on public holidays.
Overtime Pay: If work is necessary on a public holiday, employees are entitled to overtime pay rates in line with Vietnamese labor law.
Weekend Considerations: When a public holiday falls on a weekend, the following Monday typically becomes a recognized holiday.
Planning Ahead: Businesses should factor public holidays into their operational schedules, budgeting, and staffing plans.

Additional Considerations

Regional Variations: Certain provinces might recognize additional local holidays.
Travel and Logistics: Public holidays can cause high demand for transportation and travel services. Businesses may need to make advance arrangements if operations require travel or logistics during these periods.

Staying Informed

The Vietnamese government and official news outlets release the official public holiday calendar well in advance of each year. Businesses are advised to stay up-to-date on any changes or additions to the list of recognized holidays.

Conclusion

Understanding Vietnam’s public holiday system is key to ensuring compliance with labor laws and fostering a positive working environment. By planning and staying informed, businesses can navigate these periods smoothly while respecting the cultural significance of these holidays for their employees.

Disclaimer

This blog post provides general information on public holidays in Vietnam. Labor laws and regulations may change. Businesses are always advised to consult with qualified HR professionals or legal advisors in Vietnam for the most accurate and up-to-date guidance.