Public Holidays are one of the most valuable employment benefits in Singapore. Every year, employees look forward to paid holidays such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, National Day and Christmas.
Understanding your rights under the Singapore Employment Act is important because working on a Public Holiday may entitle you to additional pay or replacement leave.
| Holiday | Date (2026) |
|---|---|
| New Year's Day | 1 January 2026 |
| Chinese New Year | 17–18 February 2026 |
| Hari Raya Puasa | Expected March 2026* |
| Good Friday | 3 April 2026 |
| Labour Day | 1 May 2026 |
| Vesak Day | 31 May 2026 |
| Hari Raya Haji | Expected May/June 2026* |
| National Day | 9 August 2026 |
| Deepavali | Expected November 2026* |
| Christmas Day | 25 December 2026 |
*Dates for certain religious holidays are subject to official confirmation.
Under MOM regulations, employers generally cannot simply treat a Public Holiday as a normal working day.
Employees who are required to work may be entitled to:
Many employees confuse Public Holiday pay with overtime pay.
They are not always the same thing.
If you work beyond your normal working hours on a Public Holiday, both Public Holiday compensation and overtime rules may apply depending on your employment category and salary level.
Shift workers have special arrangements under the Employment Act.
If a Public Holiday falls on a non-working day, employers may provide:
Always review your employment contract and company handbook for specific policies.
Not sure how Public Holiday work affects your take-home pay?
Try the Singapore Salary CalculatorPublic Holidays are protected under Singapore employment law and form an important part of employee benefits. Understanding your entitlements can help ensure you receive the correct compensation when working during holidays.