Statutory Leave Entitlement in the United Kingdom
Minimum paid leave required by law in the United Kingdom: the number of days, the legal source, and how it applies.
Last updated:
How many paid leave days are required by law in the United Kingdom?
The statutory minimum paid leave in the United Kingdom is 28 working days per year. The legal basis is Working Time Regulations 1998. Includes 8 public holidays (bank holidays) This figure is the legal floor; collective agreements or employment contracts can grant more leave, never less. Proration for a mid-year start and the treatment of public holidays are separate rules that apply on top of this minimum. This information is provided for general guidance and is not legal advice. Confirm the exact entitlement for your region, industry, and employment type with qualified legal counsel, because labor laws change over time. TODO: verify the current legal position before relying on this for compliance decisions.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Statutory minimum paid leave | 28 working days |
| Legal source | Working Time Regulations 1998 |
| Notes | Includes 8 public holidays (bank holidays) |
| Last verified | 2025-10-18 |
Source: Working Time Regulations 1998. Not legal advice. TODO: verify current status.
Frequently asked questions
28 working days per year under Working Time Regulations 1998. Contracts can grant more. TODO: verify.
No. This is general guidance only. For binding answers about your situation, consult qualified legal counsel.
Public holidays are usually handled separately from statutory paid leave. Check the regional rules. TODO: verify.