What are the Leave Entitlements for employees in Ghana?

In Ghana, employees are entitled to a range of leave types to support work-life balance and health needs. Here’s an overview of the main leave entitlements for employees in Ghana, including annual, sick, and public holiday leave.

Annual Leave in Ghana

After completing four months of continuous service, employees in Ghana are entitled to a minimum of 7 days of paid annual leave. This leave can be taken at any time within the calendar year, allowing employees flexibility in planning their time off. In addition to annual leave, Ghana observes 15 public holidays each year. These public holidays include national observances like New Year's Day, Independence Day, and Christmas Day.

Sick Leave Entitlement

Employees who experience illness or injury are entitled to sick leave after their first month of continuous employment. During the first month of certified sickness or injury, employees will receive full pay. However, if the employee remains absent due to illness for more than two months without returning to work, the employer has the right to terminate the employment contract. Sick leave policies ensure that employees can recover with financial security while providing a framework for employment continuity.

Observed Public Holidays in Ghana

Ghana observes 15 public holidays annually to celebrate national events and cultural observances. These holidays include:

• New Year’s Day
• Independence Day
• Christmas Day, among others.
  
  

On public holidays, employees are generally not required to work, and if they do, they are often entitled to additional pay, depending on company policy and labor agreements.

Family Responsibility Leave

While family responsibility leave is not mandated by Ghanaian labor law, some employers may offer it as part of their employment benefits. Family responsibility leave may cover situations such as family emergencies, bereavement, or other responsibilities requiring the employee's presence. This leave is typically discretionary, so employees should consult their employer’s policies for specifics on family-related leave.