2026 Holidays - Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Public Holiday Observance Rules

1. Entitlement to Public Holidays

- Sri Lanka observes several public holidays annually, including national, religious, and cultural celebrations. Employees are entitled to a day off with pay on public holidays, as outlined in the Shop and Office Employees Act and other labor laws. Source

2. Substitution of Holidays Falling on a Weekend

- Public holidays that fall on a Saturday or Sunday are not typically moved to a weekday. However, employers may provide alternate arrangements depending on workplace agreements or collective agreements. Source

3. Working on Public Holidays

- Employees required to work on public holidays are entitled to additional compensation, which may include overtime pay or a compensatory day off. Terms for working on holidays are governed by Sri Lanka's labor laws and employment contracts. Source

4. Public Holidays During Paid Leave

- Public holidays falling during an employee’s paid leave are not deducted from their total leave entitlement. Employees retain the full number of their annual leave days in such cases. Source

5. Additional Notes

- Sri Lanka’s public holiday schedule includes both fixed holidays like Independence Day and movable religious holidays based on the Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, and Christian calendars. Employers and employees are encouraged to consult the official government holiday list each year for accurate observance. Source