How to Calculate Leave in South Africa: The 2026 BCEA Leave Guide
The Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA) governs all leave in South Africa. This guide covers every leave type with worked examples, common calculation errors, and the documentation required to avoid CCMA disputes.
Annual Leave
Employees who work 5 days per week are entitled to 21 consecutive days (15 working days) per year. Worked example: Thabo earns R18,000/month and his annual leave accrues at 21 days per year. Daily rate = R18,000 ÷ 21.67 = R830.88.
Sick Leave
30 days sick leave in every 36-month cycle. First 6 months of employment: 1 day per 26 days worked. Medical certificate required for absences of 2+ consecutive days or 2+ occasions in an 8-week period.
Maternity Leave
4 consecutive months minimum. Cannot be compelled to work 6 weeks before or after birth. UIF Maternity Benefit pays 38–60% of salary during this period.
Family Responsibility Leave
3 paid days per year. Triggers: birth of a child, death of immediate family member, or child illness. Must complete 4 months of employment first.
Common BCEA Leave Mistakes
- Calculating in calendar days instead of working days
- Deducting Sundays and public holidays from annual leave
- Refusing leave payout on termination
- Confusing sick leave and family responsibility leave