Additional Leave for Defenders: How Many Days and Who is Entitled to Compensation.

According to ТСН: According to Ukrainian legislation, combatants (UBD) are entitled to additional leave. Military personnel can receive two weeks more vacation each year or convert these days into compensation.

Features of Additional Leave for UBD

According to the law, the additional leave lasts up to 14 calendar days per year, and for individuals with special merits – up to 21 days, reported the Ministry of Defense.

During martial law, the decision to grant such leave is made by the commander of the military unit. The serviceman must submit a report, which is evaluated considering the completion of combat tasks and the operational situation. It is important that no more than 30% of the fighters in one unit are absent at the same time.

The additional leave is granted within a year from the moment the person acquires the right to it, regardless of the actual length of service. In addition to additional leave, combatants also have the right to annual basic leave.

This leave is granted in one period of two weeks, and it cannot be divided. For individuals with special merits, the term can be extended to three weeks.

It is also provided to grant another 1-2 days necessary for travel to the place of rest within Ukraine and back.

The right to such leave remains with the person regardless of where they work or serve. Thus, even if a serviceman is discharged and transitions to civilian work, he will still be able to take advantage of the additional vacation.

Compensation for Unused Leave for UBD

Additional leave has a cumulative nature, meaning that unused days do not 'expire'. Upon discharge, military personnel can receive monetary compensation for them. The only exception is cases where the defender was dismissed for service noncompliance, due to a court ruling, or systematic non-fulfillment of contract conditions.

Therefore, it is important for combatants to know their rights regarding leave and compensation. This helps them not only recover after fulfilling their duties but also provides financial support in case of transitioning to civilian work. Additional time for rest and the ability to save unused days are important aspects of social support for warriors who deserve attention and respect in society.