Foreign workers moving to the United Kingdom often want to understand their employment rights, especially regarding paid holidays. The UK has strong labour laws designed to protect all workers, including Skilled Worker visa holders, temporary workers, care workers, and other non-UK nationals.

Do Work Visa Holders Get Paid Holidays in the UK?

Yes. All legal workers in the UK, including work visa holders, are entitled to paid holidays under the Working Time Regulations 1998.
Visa status does not affect holiday rights. As long as you have a valid employment contract, you must receive the same minimum paid leave as UK-based employees.

How Much Paid Holiday Do Foreign Workers Receive?

The minimum legal entitlement in the UK is:

• 5.6 weeks of paid holiday per year, which equals

• 28 days for full-time employees working 5 days per week

This is called statutory annual leave.

Part-time workers also receive paid holidays, but the number of days is calculated based on the hours or days they work.

Many employers offer more than the minimum (for example, 30–33 days per year).

Are Bank Holidays Included?

This depends on the employer.

• Some companies include public/bank holidays within the 28 days

• Others offer bank holidays in addition to the 28-day entitlement

The details are always written in the employment contract.

How Is Holiday Pay Calculated?

Holiday pay depends on how you are paid:

• Fixed monthly salary: Your regular monthly salary is used

• Hourly or shift work: An average weekly wage is calculated

• Overtime or irregular hours: Pay is based on the last 52 weeks of earnings

Holiday pay cannot be lower than your normal working pay.

Do Temporary or Agency Visa Workers Also Get Paid Holidays?

Yes.
Seasonal workers, caregivers, hospitality workers, and agency staff on UK work visas receive pro-rated paid holidays.

Even if you work irregular shifts, your employer must provide paid annual leave based on your working pattern.

Key Rights for Work Visa Holders in the UK

Work visa holders have legal rights, including:

• Paid annual leave (minimum 5.6 weeks)

• Paid sick leave (depending on eligibility)

• Safe working conditions

• Fair working hours

• Protection from unfair treatment or discrimination

Your rights do not change because you are a foreign worker.

What to Check in Your Employment Contract

Before starting a job, look for:

• Total number of paid holidays

• Whether bank holidays are included

• How holiday pay is calculated

• How to request or schedule leave

• Any additional paid leave offered by the employer

If details are unclear, ask your employer or HR team for clarification.

Conclusion

Work visa holders in the UK do receive paid holidays, just like British workers.
The minimum entitlement is 28 paid days per year, and many employers offer more.
Foreign workers should always review their employment contract to understand how holiday pay, bank holidays, and leave scheduling work in their role.

If you plan to work in the UK, knowing your rights will help you make informed decisions and avoid misunderstandings after arrival.