Booking time off should be simple—but sometimes, employers may refuse a holiday request. If you’ve had annual leave declined, you might be wondering why—and whether they’re allowed to do it.
Here’s what you need to know about the valid reasons for denying annual leave, and your rights as an employee.
1. Yes, your employer can refuse annual leave
Under UK law, employees are entitled to 5.6 weeks of paid annual leave per year (pro-rated for part-time workers). However, while you have a right to take this leave, you don’t have an automatic right to take it whenever you want.
Employers can refuse or restrict leave requests if they have a valid business reason or if the request doesn’t follow their policy.
2. Common reasons for denying annual leave
Some of the most common reasons an employer may deny a holiday request include:
1. Too many people off at the same time
If several team members have already booked leave for the same period, your employer may reject your request to ensure enough staff are available to cover work.
2. Busy periods for the business
Employers can set restrictions around peak trading periods (such as Christmas, summer holidays, or key financial deadlines) where they need full staffing levels. Some industries, like retail or hospitality, may have blackout dates for leave.
3. Insufficient notice given
Most employers have rules about how far in advance leave must be requested. If you don’t give enough notice (e.g., requesting leave next week when the policy requires 4 weeks’ notice), your employer can reject the request.
4. Leave clashes with critical work
Your request may be denied if it falls during a time when you’re needed for essential projects, events, or deadlines.
5. Leave limits exceeded
Some employers cap how much leave can be taken at once (for example, no more than two weeks off in a row) or how many people can be off at the same time in a department.
3. Notice of refusal must follow rules
Employers must give you at least as much notice of refusal as the amount of leave you requested. For example, if you asked for 5 days off, they must tell you at least 5 days before the leave was due to start.
If they don’t respond in time, the leave may be considered approved.
4. Can an employer refuse all annual leave?
Employers cannot refuse to let you take your statutory annual leave entitlement altogether. They have to ensure you’re given the opportunity to take your paid holiday each year.
They can control when you take it (with reasonable restrictions), but not prevent you from taking it at all.
5. Can leave be cancelled once approved?
In some cases, an employer can cancel previously approved leave if there’s a significant business reason. However:
- They must give you at least the same amount of notice as the leave booked
- They must not cause you to lose your statutory entitlement
- They may be liable for costs if you’ve already paid for non-refundable travel or accommodation
Employers are expected to avoid cancelling leave unless absolutely necessary.
6. What can you do if your leave is denied?
If your leave is refused:
- Speak to your manager or HR to understand the reason
- Check your employment contract or staff handbook for leave policies
- Consider alternative dates that work for both you and the business
- If you believe the refusal is unfair or discriminatory, seek advice from your HR department or an employment rights adviser
In summary
Your employer can refuse annual leave requests for valid business reasons, but they cannot deny your statutory holiday entitlement altogether. Understanding your company’s leave policies and booking early can improve your chances of securing the time off you want.
At Offdays.co.uk, we’re here to help you make the most of your leave—whether you’re planning a holiday, managing workplace rules, or navigating your rights. Explore more of our articles for practical advice on using your time off wisely.
Leave a Reply