What is marriage leave (Congedo Matrimoniale) under the CCNL commercio in Italy?

Employees covered by the Italian National Collective Bargaining Agreement for Commerce (CCNL Commercio – Terziario, Distribuzione e Servizi) are entitled to 15 calendar days of fully paid marriage leave (Congedo Matrimoniale) in connection with their civil or religious marriage or civil union. 


Who Is Entitled to Marriage Leave?

Marriage leave is available to employees whose employment is governed by the CCNL Commercio. The entitlement applies to:

  • Civil marriages

  • Religious (concordatario) marriages

  • Civil unions

This leave is granted once per marriage or civil union event and only the employed spouse is eligible to receive paid leave.


What Does the Entitlement Include?

Eligible employees are entitled to:

  • 15 consecutive calendar days of paid leave

  • Full salary during the leave period, including:

    • Fixed bonuses

    • Allowances

    • Commissions (if applicable)

This leave is categorized as extraordinary paid leave (congedo straordinario) and is fully funded by the employer. No reimbursement is provided by the Italian Social Security Institute (INPS).


When Can Marriage Leave Be Taken?

Marriage leave must adhere to the following timing requirements:

  • It can start no earlier than three days before the marriage or civil union date.

  • It must be used within 30 days of the event.

  • Exceptions to the 30-day rule are possible, but only with the employer’s prior approval.


How Should Employees Apply?

To request Congedo Matrimoniale, employees must:

  1. Submit the leave request in advance, following internal company procedures.

  2. Coordinate with their manager or HR to ensure business needs are considered.

  3. Provide a copy of the marriage or civil union certificate upon return from leave.


Who Pays for the Leave?

  • The employer bears the full cost of this leave.

  • Employees continue to receive 100% of their regular salary, including any applicable fixed components.

  • There is no government reimbursement for this leave under INPS.


What Should Employers and Managers Do?

If an employee requests marriage leave:

  • Ensure the leave request is submitted ahead of time.

  • Confirm the requested dates comply with the 30-day limit, or approve any necessary exceptions.

  • Collect a copy of the marriage certificate after the leave period for documentation purposes.

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