Q. How many public holidays are employees entitled to in Pakistan?
Employees in Pakistan are entitled to around 13 to 16 official public holidays each year. These include national events like Pakistan Day, Eid holidays, and Independence Day. The final list is issued annually by the federal or provincial government.
Q. Do workers get a paid day off on public holidays in Pakistan?
Yes, both public and private sector employees are entitled to paid leave on public holidays under Pakistan’s labor law. If an employee normally works that day, the holiday is considered a fully paid non-working day. Employers must honor the official holiday calendar.
Q. What happens if a public holiday falls on a Sunday or rest day in Pakistan?
If a public holiday falls on a Sunday or weekly rest day, it is not automatically shifted or compensated unless specifically declared by the government. Some employers, by policy, offer a substitute day off. This depends on the company’s internal rules or sector regulations.
Q. What is the holiday pay rule if someone works on a public holiday in Pakistan?
If an employee works on a public holiday, they must be paid double wages for that day or granted a compensatory paid day off. This is mandatory under labor regulations and ensures fair compensation for holiday labor.
Q. Can employers require staff to work on public holidays in Pakistan?
Employers can request employees to work on a public holiday for urgent or essential operations, but they must provide double pay or a compensatory leave. Employees may not refuse if it’s allowed by contract or company policy, but compensation is non-negotiable.
Q. Do all industries in Pakistan observe the same public holidays?
Public holidays are generally uniform, but some sectors like banks or factories may follow custom calendars. The federal government announces holidays, but provinces and sectors may have small variations. Religious holidays are consistent, while civil holidays may vary.
Q. Are daily wage and hourly workers entitled to public holiday pay in Pakistan?
Daily-wage and hourly workers are entitled to paid public holidays if they would normally have worked on that day. If they are made to work, they must receive double pay. Employers cannot deny this benefit based on payment type.
Q. Can a company offer a substitute day off instead of observing the actual holiday?
Yes, if business operations require employees to work on a public holiday, the employer may offer a substitute day off with full pay. This practice is common in industries that cannot close during holidays, such as healthcare or hospitality.
Q. Are religious minorities in Pakistan allowed optional holidays for their festivals?
Yes, religious minorities may be granted optional leave for their religious festivals, such as Christmas, Holi, or Diwali. These leaves are usually unpaid or counted against casual leave, but many employers approve them on request.
Q. Do probationary or new employees qualify for public holiday pay in Pakistan?
Public holiday pay applies to all employees, including those on probation or newly hired. There is no minimum service requirement to qualify. If the employee is present in the current payroll cycle, they are legally entitled to paid holidays.
Q. What are the penalties if employers don’t follow public holiday rules in Pakistan?
Failure to provide public holidays or proper compensation can lead to fines, labor court complaints, and penalties under labor law. Inspectors may impose fines, and employees may be entitled to recover unpaid dues through legal action.
