By law, we’re not required to give a reason when applying for annual leave. As long as we follow the company’s process, our leave should be granted, even if we simply put “Personal matters.”
However, while we’re not obligated to provide a reason, the company can reject our leave for 4 main reasons:
1. Insufficient notice. This often happens during emergencies, but if the company requires a 1-week notice period, they have the right to reject short-notice leave.
2. Not following procedure. Every company has its own leave application process. These days, most require us to apply through a leave portal, and some even need up to 3 levels of approvals before our leave is officially granted.
3. Manpower shortage. If the company is already short-staffed, especially in industries like retail, healthcare, construction, or logistics, they can reject our leave request.
4. Urgent projects or deadlines. If there’s a big project with a tight deadline or an emergency at the workplace, our leave may be rejected due to the need for “all hands on deck.” This is also when we hear about “Freezing leaves”.
So, here’s my advice. If you want to increase the chances of your leave being approved, give your boss a reason NOT to reject it! Sometimes, a good reason can help sway the decision.
Here are few I’ve used in my own applications irl:
“Ling is tired. I need 2 days rest to reboot before I go crazy at work.”
“Visiting my parents because I want to be a good daughter while I still can.”
“Need to attend to some tax issues because the government doesn’t work on weekends.”
If it’s a long leave (for me, that’s anything beyond 4 working days), I always work out a plan in advance and speak to my boss personally to reassure him everything will be covered. No need to panic – I’ve got a plan.
Annual leave is our right as employees to take time off for whatever reason, but it’s still subject to the employer’s approval. It’s all about give and take to foster workforce harmony.
Both parties need to put in the effort to accommodate each other.
xoxoxo, AuntyHR
