As the May holidays approach, Russians are preparing for an extended break, with the potential to enjoy a long vacation from May 1 to May 11, 2025. However, many are also strategizing to maximize both their time off and vacation pay. With careful planning, workers can optimize their holidays while keeping financial considerations in mind.
Maximizing Time Off
May 2025 will feature 31 calendar days, including 13 days off and 18 working days. According to labor law expert Olga Vladimirova from the Headhunter platform, employees looking to extend their break can strategically plan their leave by taking time off from May 5 to May 7. This could result in a continuous holiday period, though there may be some trade-offs financially. Vladimirova explains, “You can extend the May holidays by taking leave from May 5 to May 7, but you might lose out financially.”
The Impact of Vacation Pay
Vladimirova noted that May isn’t necessarily the most financially advantageous month for vacation due to the limited number of working days. Since vacation payments are calculated based on average daily earnings, which depend on the number of working days in the month, the more weekends and holidays there are, the lower the total compensation. “The more days off there are, the lower the vacation pay will be,” she stated.
For those hoping to enjoy an extended holiday without significantly impacting their paycheck, Vladimirova recommends taking leave from April 28 to April 30. This would result in nine consecutive days off, with potentially higher vacation pay, as more working days would be factored into the calculation.
Holiday Schedule Overview
The Ministry of Labor has outlined the holiday schedule for May 2025, which will include two long weekends. The first will occur from May 1 to May 4, coinciding with Spring and Labor Day celebrations. The second long weekend will run from May 8 to May 11, in celebration of Victory Day.
The period from May 5 to May 7 will feature one of the shortest working weeks of the year, a result of the transfer of holidays from earlier in the year. Specifically, the holiday from February 23 has been moved to May 8, creating an extended weekend. With fewer working days, many workers may opt to take advantage of the time off, whether for travel or relaxation.
Additional Benefits for Workers
For those who prefer to work through the holidays, there are financial incentives to consider. Workers who take on extra shifts during the holiday periods can earn significantly more, as the law mandates that overtime during holidays is compensated at a minimum of double the regular rate. This applies to all payment systems, whether salaried, piecework, or hourly. Employees who work during both long weekends could earn additional pay equivalent to eight regular working days.
Moreover, employees have the option to exchange extra hours worked during the holidays for additional time off at a later date. For instance, working two extra hours on a holiday might entitle an employee to two hours of leave. This flexibility allows workers to balance their desire for time off with the opportunity to earn more money.
Conclusion
The upcoming May holidays in 2025 present a unique opportunity for both relaxation and increased earnings. With strategic planning, Russians can enjoy an extended break while still considering their financial needs. Whether opting for extended time off or working during the festive season for additional pay, the options cater to a range of preferences and circumstances. As the country prepares for these extended holidays, workers will find that careful planning is key to making the most of this festive period.
