Source date: 2026-04-20
Can employers make their employees work on May 1st? Published on April 21, 2026 - Entreprendre Service Public / Directorate of Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)
As May 1st approaches, it is essential to know the applicable rules in the workplace on that day. Reminder.
Image 1 Credits: LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS - stock.adobe.com
The labor code sets out provisions regarding public holidays. However, specific rules apply to May 1st.
Specific Provisions for May 1st
May 1st is a mandatory day off. It cannot result in a salary reduction. Thus, employees paid hourly, daily, or by performance are entitled to compensation equivalent to the salary they would have earned. This compensation is paid by the employer.
Exception for establishments and services where continuity is essential On May 1st, the obligation not to work does not apply to establishments and services where the continuity of activity is essential (hospitals, public transport...).
An employee who works on May 1st benefits from double their usual pay. Indeed, the employer must pay them their salary as well as an additional amount equal to that salary.
On April 17, in a statement, the Prime Minister announced "his intention to present in the coming days a bill aimed at allowing artisanal bakers and florists to open on May 1st."
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Source: Service-Public professionals
