What is Sabbatical Leave?
More Singaporeans are hitting the brakes on their careers to rest, reset and recharge. These extended breaks, known as sabbaticals, are all about stepping back so you can continue to thrive in the workplace.
This guide explains the process of sabbaticals in the Singapore workplace. We¡¯ll cover why people take them, how they¡¯re managed and what to consider when planning for one, whether the sabbatical is for yourself or an employee.
What is a sabbatical?
A sabbatical is an extended, structured break from work. What you choose to do on sabbatical leave is completely up to you; you might take the time to rest, learn, travel or chase a passion. Typically taken after several years of continuous service, sabbatical leave may be paid or unpaid, depending on the employer's policy.
While not a guaranteed perk under the , many forward-thinking companies offer paid sabbatical leave as a way to support work-life balance and keep their employees inspired for the long haul.
Types of sabbatical leave
Sabbaticals can take many forms, each serving a different purpose. Some examples include:
- Career break sabbatical: Allows time to rest, try something new, explore new paths or even volunteer
- Professional development sabbatical: Helps build skills or gain qualifications to advance within a current role
- Personal sabbatical: Allows time to travel, reconnect with family or pursue hobbies outside of work
- Medical sabbatical: Allows employees to take time off due to health reasons
Why do people take sabbaticals?
People take sabbaticals for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common motivations include:
- Personal growth: A sabbatical provides employees an opportunity to pursue passions, reconnect and spend time with loved ones or reflect on personal goals.
- Skill enhancement: Some people choose to use their time on sabbatical leave to enhance their knowledge, develop new skills or explore opportunities in a different industry.
- Burnout recovery: Sabbaticals provide an opportunity to unwind and rest, which is important for those dealing with burnout or mental fatigue.
- Travel and exploration: For many, sabbatical leave is a chance to travel without the limits of annual leave.
What are the benefits of sabbaticals?
For employees, taking extended time away from work can:
- Support mental and emotional wellbeing
- Boost creativity and energy
- Increase job satisfaction and personal growth
- Provide opportunities to learn new skills and explore career goals
For employers, offering sabbaticals can:
- Promote a healthy work-life balance to reduce staff turnover
- Help prevent burnout and minimise unexpected absences
- Foster a motivated and loyal workforce
- Develop a team that thrives on adaptability and resilience
Sabbatical leave rules in Singapore.
Sabbatical leave is not a statutory entitlement under Singapore¡¯s Employment Act and is provided at the discretion of employers or as outlined in employment contracts or company policies. It is available to employees who meet eligibility criteria, typically after a certain period of continuous service, such as 3 to 5 years.
Allowing employees to take extended time off for personal or professional development, sabbatical leave covers activities like travel, study, or rest. Its purpose is to provide employees with time to recharge without having to worry about work, ultimately and productivity upon return.
Common provisions include one to three months of leave, which may be paid, partially paid, or unpaid, though some sectors like social services offer up to 10 weeks of paid leave through schemes like the .
When can sabbatical leave be taken?
Sabbatical leave can be taken after meeting company-specific eligibility, often including:
- A minimum service period: Typically 3 to 5 years of continuous employment.
- Approval process: Employees usually need to apply in advance, outlining the purpose and duration.
It¡¯s also important to note that sabbatical leave is usually only available to full-time employees, as defined by the employer.
How much sabbatical leave is available?
The amount of sabbatical leave available to employees depends on company policy:
- Full-time employees: Generally entitled to one to three months, or up to 10 weeks in specific schemes, which may be paid or unpaid for each eligible period.
- Part-time or casual employees: May not be entitled, or only to unpaid leave, depending on the employer's policy.
Sometimes, employers may offer additional sabbatical leave beyond standard practices. To check this, employees should speak to their employer or look at their contract. They may be able to use other types of leave, like annual or unpaid, depending on their circumstances.
Employees can take sabbatical leave in the way that works best for them, subject to employer approval, including:
- A single continuous period.
- Separate periods if agreed.
Is sabbatical leave paid?
Full-time employees may receive paid or partially paid sabbatical leave as part of their employment benefits, typically at the base pay rate. Part-time or casual employees may only receive unpaid sabbatical leave, depending on company policy.
Can an employee refuse a sabbatical?
Since sabbatical leave is not statutory, it can be refused if it does not align with company policy or business needs. For example, if the timing disrupts operations.
To mitigate this, it¡¯s important that employers have clear, fair policies regarding sabbatical leave. This ensures they prioritise treating employees with fairness and respect while supporting employee wellbeing.
Sabbatical leave is an integral benefit within the Singapore workplace for retention and wellbeing. Understanding the common practices, company policies and process of sabbatical leave can make extended breaks more seamless for both the employee and the employer.
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