Vladimir Putin signed a decree regarding non-working days from May 4 to 7, 2021, similar to those introduced last year. But this does not mean a complete lockdown: the Ministry of Labor clarified who can work during the May holidays and how companies should pay salaries.

Companies have to decide for themselves which employees must work during this period — there are no restrictions in the decree. Theoretically it is possible to work full-time not only remotely, but also at the usual workplace (be prepared to justify the need in the event of an inspection).

For employees on vacation, there is no need to recalculate or extend anything.

How to Pay Salaries for This Period

The Presidential Decree requires employers to pay wages for the period of non-working days in the same amount as if the employees were at work. There is no requirement to increase the payment, but the employer may do so at their personal discretion.

Non-working days are not a reason to postpone pay day: it must be paid either on the due date or in advance.

How Companies Can Prepare For the Non-Working Days

1. Prepare an order with a list of employees who will continue to work during the May holidays.
2. Get the consent to work from those employees who will be working May 1 through May 3 and May 8 through May 10. For those who will be working from May 4 to May 7, you do not need consent — there are no grounds for that. But to be on the safe side, you can formalize it in writing.