How many public holidays are there in Malta?

Malta has 14 official public holidays annually, combining national celebrations, religious feasts, and historical commemorations. These include New Year's Day, Good Friday, Freedom Day (March 31), Workers' Day (May 1), Independence Day (September 21), Christmas, and several Catholic feast days.

What is the biggest public holiday in Malta?

The Feast of Santa Marija (Assumption - August 15) is Malta's most significant public holiday, celebrated nationwide with fireworks, processions, and village festas. Christmas and Easter are also major celebrations. Independence Day (September 21) and Republic Day (December 13) mark important historical milestones.

Do businesses close on Malta public holidays?

Yes, most businesses, banks, government offices, and shops close on Malta public holidays. Essential services (hospitals, pharmacies on duty roster, petrol stations, some restaurants) remain open. Tourist areas like Sliema and St. Julian's have more businesses open. Supermarkets may close or operate reduced hours.

Do employees get paid for public holidays in Malta?

Yes, Malta law requires employers to pay employees their normal wage for public holidays, even if they don't work. If an employee works on a public holiday, they receive double pay (normal wage + public holiday premium). Part-time workers receive pro-rata public holiday pay based on their weekly hours.

What happens if a public holiday falls on a weekend in Malta?

When a Malta public holiday falls on a weekend, it is not moved to a weekday. Employees get their public holiday entitlement but no additional day off. However, many businesses and offices have reduced operations the day before or after weekend public holidays, especially during summer festas and Christmas period.

Il-Milied - Celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ

Church Feast

About Malta Public Holidays

Malta observes 14 public holidays annually, consisting of both national holidays and religious feast days (Public Holidays Act, Chapter 252 of the Laws of Malta).

Public Holiday Rules:

Paid Leave: Employees are entitled to paid leave on public holidays
Sunday Overlap: If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday becomes a public holiday
Saturday Holidays: Some employers give Monday off if holiday falls on Saturday
Essential Services: Hospitals, police, and essential services operate 24/7
Public Transport: Reduced schedules on most public holidays
Shops & Businesses: Most shops close on public holidays (exceptions for tourist areas)

Business Impact:

Plan ahead for Malta's public holidays:

Banks and government offices close
Reduced public transport schedules
Tourist attractions may have special hours
Restaurants and cafes in tourist areas usually open

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