Understanding Unpaid Leave in Singapore In Singapore, sometimes people who have jobs might need to take time off from work without getting paid. This is called unpaid leave, and it's important for both the workers and the bosses to know about it. This article will tell you all about unpaid leave in Singapore, like the different kinds of unpaid leave, who can take it, how long it can be, how to ask for it, and how it can affect the benefits workers get.

1. Understanding Unpaid Leave in Singapore
Introduction
In Singapore, sometimes people who have jobs might need to take time off from
work without getting paid. This is called unpaid leave, and it's important for both the
workers and the bosses to know about it. This article will tell you all about unpaid
leave in Singapore, like the different kinds of unpaid leave, who can take it, how long
it can be, how to ask for it, and how it can affect the benefits workers get.
What is Unpaid Leave?
Unpaid leave means when someone who has a job needs to take time off from work
without getting paid. This can happen for different reasons like personal things to
take care of, important family events, being sick, or when there's an emergency. It's
important for both the boss and the worker to know about unpaid leave so they can
follow the rules and keep things fair and happy at work.
Types of Unpaid Leave in Singapore
In Singapore, there are different types of unpaid leave that employees can utilize:

2. 1. No-Pay Leave
No-pay leave means when someone takes time off from work but doesn't get any
money for it. People usually take this kind of leave for personal reasons like going on
a long trip, taking a break from work, or studying more. It's important to tell the boss
ahead of time if you want to take no-pay leave, following the rules and ways of the
company.
2. Unpaid Medical Leave
Unpaid medical leave is applicable when an employee needs time off work due to
illness or injury but has exhausted their sick leave entitlement. It provides an
opportunity for employees to recuperate and receive necessary medical treatment
without pay. A valid medical certificate is required to support the need for unpaid
medical leave.
3. Maternity and Paternity Unpaid Leave
Maternity and paternity unpaid leave is provided to eligible employees to support the
transition to parenthood. Mothers are entitled to paid maternity leave, but if they
require additional time off, they can opt for unpaid maternity leave. Fathers, on the
other hand, can take unpaid paternity leave to bond with their newborn child.
Eligibility for Unpaid Leave
The eligibility criteria for unpaid leave in Singapore may vary depending on the type
of leave and the specific circumstances. Generally, employees are eligible for unpaid
leave if they meet the following requirements:
1. Employment Period

3. Employees should have completed a minimum period of service with their employer
to be eligible for unpaid leave. The required period may differ based on company
policies and employment contracts.
2. Approval from Employers
Employees must seek approval from their employers for unpaid leave. The request
should be made in advance, allowing sufficient time for the employer to assess the
operational impact and make suitable arrangements.
3.Compliance with Company Policies and Legal
Requirements
Employees should comply with their company's policies and procedures regarding
unpaid leave. Additionally, they must adhere to any statutory requirements specified
by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore.
Duration of Unpaid Leave
The duration of unpaid leave can vary based on the employee's needs, the type of
leave, and the company's policies. Here are some key considerations:
1. No-Pay Leave
The duration of no-pay leave is determined by the employee's agreement with the
employer. It can range from a few days to several months, depending on the
circumstances.
2. Unpaid Medical Leave
Unpaid medical leave is granted based on the employee's medical condition and the
recommendations of the attending healthcare professional. The duration can vary
depending on the recovery time required.

4. 3. Maternity and Paternity Unpaid Leave
The duration of maternity and paternity unpaid leave is regulated by the Employment
Act and the Child Development Co-Savings Act. Mothers can take up to 12 weeks of
maternity leave, while fathers can take up to 2 weeks of paternity leave.
Application and Approval Process
To apply for unpaid leave, employees typically need to follow a specific process:
1. Submission of Leave Application
Employees should submit their leave application to their supervisors or the relevant
department within their organization. The application should include details such as
the type of unpaid leave requested, the intended duration, and the reason for the
leave.
2. Approval and Confirmation
Employers will review the leave application and assess its feasibility. They may
consider factors such as staffing requirements, operational needs, and the
employee's eligibility for unpaid leave. Once approved, the employer will provide
written confirmation to the employee.
3. Recordkeeping
Both employees and employers should maintain accurate records of approved
unpaid leave to ensure proper documentation and tracking of leave entitlements.
Rights and Protections
Employees taking unpaid leave in Singapore are entitled to certain rights and
protections:

5. 1. Job Security
Employees who take unpaid leave should not face any adverse consequences or
discrimination upon their return. Employers are expected to maintain job security and
not terminate or penalize employees for exercising their rights to unpaid leave.
2. Maintenance of Employment Benefits
In most cases, employees on unpaid leave continue to be entitled to certain
employment benefits, such as medical insurance, retirement contributions, and
annual leave accrual. However, it is essential to consult the employment contract
and company policies to understand the specific terms and conditions.
Impact on Employment Benefits
While employees on unpaid leave may still be entitled to some employment benefits,
it is crucial to consider the potential impact on certain benefits:
1. CPF Contributions
During unpaid leave, employers are not required to contribute to the Central
Provident Fund (CPF) accounts of their employees. Employees should take this into
account when planning their finances and retirement savings.
2. Annual Leave Accrual
Employees on unpaid leave may not accrue annual leave during the period of
absence. It is important to review the employment contract and company policies to
understand how annual leave entitlement is affected.
Alternatives to Unpaid Leave
In some cases, employees may explore alternatives to unpaid leave to meet their
personal or professional needs:

6. 1. Flexible Work Arrangements
Flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting, part-time work, or job-sharing,
can give employees more flexibility while maintaining their income. Discussing these
options with employers can lead to mutually beneficial arrangements.
2. Paid Leave Options
Employees can consider utilizing other types of paid leave, such as annual leave or
childcare leave if they have available entitlements. This allows them to balance their
commitments without sacrificing their regular income.
Managing Unpaid Leave
To effectively manage unpaid leave, both employees and employers can take the
following steps:
1. Clear Communication
Employees should communicate their intention to take unpaid leave well in advance,
providing relevant details and reasons. This allows employers to plan and make
suitable arrangements.
2. Documentation
Employees should maintain proper documentation of their unpaid leave, including
the dates, reasons, and approval correspondence. Employers should also maintain
records to ensure compliance with labor laws and policies.
Unpaid Leave and Employment Contracts

7. Employment contracts play a crucial role in determining the terms and conditions of
unpaid leave. Employers should clearly outline the provisions related to unpaid
leave, including eligibility criteria, duration, and impact on employee benefits.
Employees should carefully review their contracts to understand their rights and
obligations.
Unpaid Leave and Statutory Requirements
Unpaid leave must comply with statutory requirements established by the Ministry of
Manpower in Singapore. Employers should be aware of the legal obligations
surrounding unpaid leave, including eligibility criteria, duration limits, and
documentation requirements.
Unpaid Leave and Medical Certificates
For unpaid medical leave, employees are typically required to provide a valid
medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner. The medical certificate
should state the employee's medical condition and the recommended duration of
leave. Employers have the right to request additional information or seek a second
medical opinion if necessary.
Unpaid Leave and Annual Leave
While on unpaid leave, employees generally do not accrue annual leave. However, it
is advisable to review the employment contract and company policies to understand
how annual leave entitlement may be affected during and after unpaid leave.
Conclusion
Unpaid leave is an important aspect of the employment landscape in Singapore.
Understanding its various types, eligibility criteria, duration, and impact on employee
benefits is crucial for employees and employers. By adhering to the guidelines and
regulations, employees can balance their personal and professional commitments,
while employers can maintain a fair and compliant work environment.

8. FAQs
1. Can employers deny unpaid leave requests?
Employers have the right to assess unpaid leave requests based on operational
needs. However, they should provide a valid justification if denying a legitimate
request.
2. Are there any limits on the duration of unpaid leave?
The duration of unpaid leave may vary depending on the circumstances and the type
of leave. Employers may set their limits, but it is important to comply with legal
requirements and ensure fairness.
3.Can employees take unpaid leave for personal travel
purposes?
Yes, employees can take no-pay leave for personal travel, subject to approval from
their employers and compliance with company policies.
4.Do employees continue to receive employment benefits
during unpaid leave?
Some employment benefits may be maintained during unpaid leave, such as medical
insurance and retirement contributions. However, reviewing the employment contract
and company policies for specific details is essential.
5.How does unpaid leave affect an employee's CPF
contributions?
During unpaid leave, employers are not required to contribute to an employee's CPF
account. Employees should plan their finances accordingly.

9. Learn more: https://quickhr.co/features/leave-management
QuickHR HR Payroll Software Singapore
Employee
database
HRMS Software Timesheet
Attendance
Biometric
Claims
management
Payroll software Shift scheduling Applicant tracking
system
Grants CPF calculator Overtime Pay
calculator
Salary proration
Calculator
Latest Articles
Income Tax Singapore CPF contribution rates Maternity Leave
Childcare Leave Family care Leave HR Singapore