Poland’s Constitution Day on May 3rd, 2026, falls on a Sunday, meaning workers are not entitled to a compensatory day off, according to labor law.
Constitution Day 2026: Will Employees Receive a Day Off?
May 3rd, 2026, Constitution Day, falls on a Sunday, prompting questions about whether employees will receive an additional day off. While the holiday is legally recognized, regulations clarify that no extra day is granted when it coincides with a Sunday.
Labor Code Clarifies Holiday Entitlement
Article 130 § 2 of the Polish Labor Code stipulates that only holidays falling on days other than Sunday reduce working hours. Consequently, employees will not receive a day off for May 3rd, 2026.
Why No Additional Day Off?
The rationale stems from the structure of working time in Poland. As Sunday is already a day off for most workers, the law does not provide additional compensation. This situation regularly causes confusion, as employees perceive the holiday as “lost,” but legally, no entitlement has been removed.
Exceptions for Workers on Sundays
There are specific situations where May 3rd can impact working time, primarily for those working on Sundays. Employers must provide either another day off or a wage supplement for work performed on a public holiday.
May 1st Holiday Schedule 2026
The 2026 May holiday period is unique, with only May 1st officially recognized as a day off. Whether the weekend extends depends on individual employee leave or employer decisions.
Employer Discretion for Additional Days Off
Employers can grant additional days off, such as a “bridge” day on Thursday or Monday, but this is a voluntary organizational decision, not a legal right. Larger companies are more likely to offer such arrangements to boost morale and work organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
For May 3rd, 2026, falling on a Sunday, no additional day off is legally required. If a holiday falls on a Sunday, it does not reduce working hours according to Article 130 § 2 of the Labor Code.
