Guide to the Norwegian Holiday Act

Wondering how many vacation days you get under the Norwegian Holiday Act? Read our quick guide on statutory annual leave, transferring days, and employer rights.

Planning time off should be exciting, but navigating employment law can be confusing. Whether you are an employer managing a team or an employee planning a getaway, understanding the Norwegian Holiday Act (Ferieloven) is essential for a smooth workplace.

Let’s break down the core regulations governing annual leave, mandatory office closures, and how to carry over your hard-earned time off.

How Many Vacation Days Am I Entitled to in Norway?
Under Norwegian law, every employee is entitled to at least 25 working days of holiday each year. Because the law counts Saturdays as working days, this equates to four weeks and one day of annual leave.

Important Note: You have a right to take these 25 vacation days even if you didn’t work or earn income during the previous calendar year.

It is common for companies bound by collective agreements to offer a 5th contractual week (30 working days), but 25 days remains the statutory legal minimum.

Extra Holiday Leave for Employees Over 60
Experience comes with some benefits in the Norwegian workforce. Employees who turn 60 years old at any point during the calendar year are entitled to one additional week of holiday.

Starting a New Job After September 30th?
Timing matters when you change employers. If your employment begins after September 30th, your holiday rights for the remainder of that calendar year change. You are entitled to a minimum of one week of holiday with your new company.

Can an Employer Deny Your Vacation Request?
A common point of confusion is who decides the timing of annual leave. While employers are required to discuss holiday planning with staff well in advance, the employer has the final say on when the main portion of the holiday is taken.

Furthermore, a company can legally require employees to take their holiday during periods when the workplace is fully or partially closed, such as during a summer shutdown or seasonal winter breaks.

How Many Vacation Days Can I Carry Over to Next Year?
If you didn't manage to use all your time off, the law allows for some flexibility. You can enter a written agreement with your employer to transfer up to 12 working days of holiday to the following calendar year.

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