2019 Holidays - Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago Public Holiday Observance Rules

1. Entitlement to Public Holidays

- Trinidad and Tobago observes several public holidays annually, including national, cultural, and religious celebrations. Employees are entitled to a day off with pay on public holidays, as mandated by the Employment Standards Act. Source

2. Substitution of Holidays Falling on a Weekend

- If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is observed as the holiday. If the holiday falls on a Saturday, no substitute day is typically provided unless officially declared by the government. Source

3. Working on Public Holidays

- Employees required to work on public holidays are entitled to additional compensation, such as double pay or a compensatory day off. The exact terms depend on the employment contract and collective agreements. Source

4. Public Holidays During Paid Leave

- Public holidays that fall during an employee’s paid leave are not deducted from their annual leave entitlement. Employees maintain their full vacation days in such cases. Source

5. Additional Notes

- Trinidad and Tobago’s public holiday calendar includes key celebrations such as Independence Day, Divali, and Eid al-Fitr, reflecting the country’s multicultural heritage. Employers and employees should consult the government’s annual holiday schedule for accurate observance and compliance. Source