Understanding PTO Reports in Italy
Italy offers comprehensive Paid Time Off (PTO) benefits that are well-defined within its employment laws, ensuring that both employees and employers can navigate leave entitlements effectively. This guide provides an overview of PTO in Italy, including annual leave, public holidays, and the processes for requesting and reporting leave.
How PTO is counted in Italy
In Italy, PTO is divided into two main categories: Annual Leave (Ferie) and Public Holidays (Festività). The calculation of leave depends on the employee’s contract and the collective agreements that may apply.
Annual Leave (Ferie)
Employees in Italy are entitled to a minimum of 4 weeks (20 business days) of paid annual leave per year. However, some collective bargaining agreements may provide for additional days. The calculation is typically as follows:
- 4 weeks of leave per year for employees working a full year.
- Pro-rated leave for part-time employees or those who have not completed a full year of service.
Public Holidays (Festività)
Italy recognizes 11 public holidays, during which employees are entitled to a day off with pay. If required to work on these days, employees are typically compensated with additional pay or time off.
Here’s a list of public holidays in Italy:
- New Year’s Day (January 1st)
- Epiphany (January 6th)
- Easter Monday (Date varies)
- Liberation Day (April 25th)
- Labour Day (May 1st)
- Republic Day (June 2nd)
- Assumption of Mary (August 15th)
- All Saints’ Day (November 1st)
- Immaculate Conception (December 8th)
- Christmas Day (December 25th)
- St. Stephen’s Day (December 26th)
How many PTO can an employee get?
Annual Leave The statutory minimum is 4 weeks (20 days) of paid leave per year. Some industries and companies, depending on collective bargaining agreements, may offer additional leave.
Public Holidays Employees are entitled to 12 public holidays. If a public holiday falls on a weekend, there is no automatic right to an additional day off, but some collective agreements may allow it.
The reference period for PTOs
In Italy, the leave year typically runs from January 1st to December 31st. Employees accrue leave during this period, and they are generally expected to take their leave within the same calendar year. Unused leave can often be carried over into the next year but must usually be taken within a specific timeframe (e.g., by June 30th of the following year).
Annual leave known as “Ferie” can be carried over into the next year and are paid only when the employment ends, while permits are off-hours from paid work, which can be used by employees during their working year. Total amount depends on NCBA applied. Permits not used by the employee by June 30 of the year following the maturity date, must be paid by the employer.
When can employee take PTO?
Annual Leave Employees have some flexibility in choosing when to take their annual leave, but employers can set certain periods during which leave must be taken (e.g., company-wide closures in August). Employers must ensure that employees take at least 2 weeks of their leave during the year, with the remaining time scheduled based on mutual agreement.
Public Holidays Employees are entitled to time off on public holidays, but if required to work, they should receive compensatory time off or additional pay. This should be outlined in the employment contract or collective agreement.
How to report PTO to your employer?
Requesting and reporting PTO in Italy involves a straightforward process:
- Review Your Employment Contract: Understand your specific entitlements and the rules for taking leave.
- Request in Advance: Plan and request your leave well in advance, especially during busy periods like summer or Christmas.
- Obtain Approval: Ensure that your leave is formally approved by your employer. This is typically done through your company’s HR system or via a written request.
- Keep Records: Document your leave requests and approvals to prevent any misunderstandings.
Need help understanding PTO in Italy?
Navigating PTO in Italy is essential for both employees and employers. With a minimum of 4 weeks of annual leave and 11 public holidays, Italian employees enjoy significant time off. Understanding the rules surrounding these entitlements is key to ensuring that both parties benefit fully from the leave arrangements. If you need assistance with understanding or managing PTO in Italy, our HR experts are here to provide the support you need. Contact us today for advice on PTO, compliance with Italian employment laws, and maximizing your leave entitlements
