How Many Weeks of Vacation Do Federal Employees Get in Canada?

By Michael Ferguson

Being a federal employee in Canada comes with certain benefits, including a decent amount of vacation time. In this article, we will discuss how many weeks of vacation federal employees get in Canada and the eligibility criteria for it.

Eligibility Criteria

Not all federal employees are eligible for the same amount of vacation time. The number of weeks of vacation you get depends on several factors, including:

  • Your years of service
  • Your collective agreement or terms and conditions of employment
  • Your level or classification
  • Whether you work full-time or part-time

Years of Service

The number of weeks of vacation you get increases with years of service. Here is a breakdown:

  • Less than one year: no vacation time
  • One to three years: two weeks of vacation time
  • Four to eight years: three weeks of vacation time
  • Nine to thirteen years: four weeks of vacation time
  • Fourteen to nineteen years: five weeks of vacation time
  • Twenty or more years: six weeks of vacation time

Collective Agreements or Terms and Conditions of Employment

Some collective agreements or terms and conditions may provide more generous vacation entitlements than those outlined above. It’s essential to check your specific agreement for details.

Classification or Level

Your classification or level also determines the number of weeks’ vacation you receive; higher-level employees typically receive more generous benefits.

Full-Time vs Part-Time Employees

Full-time employees receive the maximum number of weeks allowed for their level, while part-time employees’ vacation entitlement is pro-rated based on the number of hours they work.

Conclusion

In conclusion, federal employees in Canada are entitled to a decent amount of vacation time based on their years of service, collective agreements or terms and conditions of employment, classification or level, and whether they are full-time or part-time employees. Make sure to check your specific agreement for the details. It’s always good to take some time off from work to recharge your batteries and come back refreshed.