Do Part-Time Workers Get Paid Leave? Days Granted, Eligibility, and How to Calculate

Under Japan's Labor Standards Act, part-time and hourly workers can receive paid annual leave when they meet specific conditions. The difference from full-time employees is mainly how days are calculated—not whether the right exists at all.

This article covers when part-time workers become eligible, how leave days are calculated, and key points when submitting requests.

Part-time workers are entitled to paid leave

The law requires employers to grant paid leave to workers who have been employed continuously for six months or more and have attended at least 80% of scheduled workdays. Part-time status does not remove this right.

A common misconception is that short-hour schedules mean no paid leave. In reality, days are granted proportionally based on weekly scheduled workdays.

Eligibility requirements

• Continuous employment of six months or more (counted from hire date)
• Attendance on at least 80% of scheduled workdays (frequent absences may disqualify you)
• At least one scheduled workday per week (even weekly one-day schedules may qualify)

Probation periods are generally included in the six-month count. If work rules define a different start date, those rules take precedence.

How are leave days calculated?

The number of paid leave days depends on weekly scheduled workdays and daily scheduled hours. Under the statutory table, the initial grant at six months is typically:

1. 5+ days per week: 10 days
2. 4 days per week: 7 days
3. 3 days per week: 5 days
4. 2 days per week: 3 days
5. 1 day per week: 1 day

Days increase with tenure—for example, 11 days after 3.5 years and 14 days after 6.5 years, even for part-time workers.

How many hours does one day of leave cover?

For hourly workers, one day of paid leave usually equals that worker's scheduled hours for the day taken. If you work 4 hours per day, three days a week, one paid leave day pays wages for 4 hours.

If scheduled hours vary by day, the hours for the leave date apply. For shift-based part-time jobs, confirm scheduled hours before applying.

Points when applying

• Advance application is generally required; last-minute requests may be restricted by work rules
• Workers have the right to choose timing, though employers may request changes for business reasons
• Unused leave generally expires after two years (the right remains but becomes harder to exercise)
• Retaliation for taking paid leave is prohibited by law

FAQ

Q. Do I get paid leave if I work only two days a week?

Yes. With six months of continuous employment and 80% attendance, the initial grant is 3 days. Days increase with longer tenure.

Q. Does taking paid leave reduce my hourly rate?

On paid leave days, wages are paid for scheduled hours. This is paid leave, not an unpaid absence deduction.

Q. What if my employer refuses to grant paid leave?

If you meet the conditions and are still denied, consider contacting the Labor Standards Inspection Office. First review work rules and your attendance rate.

Summary | Paid leave is a statutory right for part-time workers too

Part-time workers who complete six months with 80% attendance are entitled to paid leave. Days depend on weekly workdays and increase proportionally for short-hour schedules. If grant dates or remaining days are unclear, check your shift schedule and confirm with HR.

※This article provides a general overview of relevant systems and does not reflect individual employment terms or company work rules. Please confirm specific handling with your employer's HR department; for tax matters, consult the tax office or a tax advisor.