Leave: the published figures vary, so check yours

Employers in Antigua and Barbuda must provide a package of mandatory benefits, though some of the published figures vary between sources.

Annual leave

Sources give figures of 21 days and 28 days of annual leave.

Given the divergence, confirm the entitlement applicable to your category with the Labour Department or your collective agreement rather than relying on a published number.

Public holidays

12 public holidays.

Maternity leave

12 weeks, with at least 8 weeks paid.

Paternity leave

There is no national statutory entitlement.

However, the Antigua and Barbuda Workers' Union has secured 3 to 10 days of paid leave in certain workplaces through negotiation, with the duration depending on the specific agreement.

Whether you get paternity leave therefore depends largely on whether a collective agreement covers your workplace.

Sick leave

Up to 10 days per year, with a medical certificate required after 2 days of absence.

Social security benefits

Contributions of 16% total fund retirement pensions, sickness and maternity benefits, and unemployment insurance.

That unemployment component is worth noting — most Caribbean systems do not provide one.

Medical benefits

7% total funds coverage under the National Health Insurance Scheme. Private employers may add supplementary health insurance.

Workmen's compensation

Under the Workmen's Compensation Act (2014), employers must compensate for job-related injuries or illnesses — medical leave pay, permanent disability support and death benefits.

No income tax

Antigua and Barbuda has no personal income tax, which means your take-home is affected only by the social security and medical contributions.

What to verify

Your annual leave entitlement with the Labour Department, whether a collective agreement covers you, and your contribution record with the Social Security Board.