Payroll and Benefits Guide Sint Maarten

Annual Leave (vacation)

Minimum statutory vacation equals 3× the number of working days per week (e.g., 15 working days for a 5-day schedule), accruing with service.

PTO carryover

In Sint Maarten, statutory annual leave does not have a clear automatic carryover rule in the law. Leave is meant to be taken when due, but accrued statutory leave cannot be forfeited by a blanket “use-it-or-lose-it” policy. Unused leave must be taken later or paid out on termination.

Public Holidays

Public holidays falling on the weekend are usually lost.

Sick Days

Employees insured under ZV are covered for medical care and loss of wages while ill (sick pay). Employer and employee contribute 8.3% / 4.2% respectively; entitlements and wage-limit caps apply as per SZV. (Employers typically ensure medical certification and may use company doctor checks.)

Maternity Leave

Women are granted maternity leave of 16 weeks.

Paternity Leave

Father’s can take unpaid leave of up to 7 days following the birth of their child.

Parental Leave

Short paid/unpaid leaves may be granted under company policy/CLAs (e.g., bereavement), with local practice reflected in government guidance; confirm specifics per contract or CLA.