The Manpower Ministry has confirmed Singapore will observe 11 public holidays in 2027, including five long weekends that could boost travel and leisure planning. New Year’s Day on January 1, 2027, will fall on a Friday, creating a four-day break when combined with the weekend.
Chinese New Year in 2027 will span February 6–7 (Saturday–Sunday), with February 8 (Monday) designated as a public holiday, creating a rare four-day break for celebrations.
Which holidays will create long weekends?
Holidaymakers can expect five long weekends next year. New Year’s Day (January 1) and Chinese New Year (February 6–8) will create four-day breaks. Hari Raya Haji (May 17) and National Day (August 9) will both fall on Mondays, extending weekend leisure time. Other holidays like Hari Raya Puasa (March 10) and Good Friday (March 26) will fall midweek, while Labour Day (May 1) and Christmas Day (December 25) will occur on Saturdays.
How do public holidays affect workers?
Employees are entitled to full pay for all 11 public holidays, according to the Manpower Ministry. However, employers and employees may agree to substitute a public holiday for another working day. Workers required to work on a holiday are entitled to an additional day’s salary at the basic rate, on top of their regular pay. This applies to workmen earning over S$4,500 monthly and non-workmen earning over S$2,600 monthly, including managers and executives.
The alignment of holidays with weekends in 2027 could drive higher travel demand, particularly during Chinese New Year and National Day. Employers may see increased absenteeism on Saturdays like Labour Day and Christmas, while businesses in retail and hospitality could benefit from extended weekend leisure periods.
What happens if an employee works on a public holiday?
Under Singapore’s labour laws, employees who work on a public holiday are entitled to an extra day’s salary at the basic rate, in addition to their regular pay. Employers may also offer time off in lieu for working agreed hours on a holiday. The rules apply to workmen earning over S$4,500 monthly and non-workmen earning over S$2,600 monthly, including executives.
How does this compare to previous years?
Singapore typically observes 11 public holidays annually, but the distribution varies. In 2027, the clustering of holidays like Chinese New Year and National Day on Mondays could create more extended breaks compared to years where holidays fall midweek. For example, Labour Day and Christmas Day falling on Saturdays in 2027 means no additional long weekend, unlike years when they occur on Fridays.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many public holidays will there be in 2027?
There will be 11 public holidays in 2027, as confirmed by the Manpower Ministry.
Will there be long weekends in 2027?
Yes, there will be five long weekends, including New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Haji, and National Day.
Are employees paid extra if they work on a public holiday?
Yes, employees who work on a public holiday are entitled to an additional day’s salary at the basic rate, on top of their regular pay.
With five long weekends planned, which holiday break are you most looking forward to?
