Time Off and Absence at GitLab

Understanding Time Away at GitLab

Use the Time Away Philosophy section below to understand GitLab’s approach to time off, communication expectations, and how to track time away in Workday. The Time-Off Types and Leave Types pages include detailed information about how these can be used by GitLab team members.

About Our Terminology

We use two terms to organize our policies, and we recognize that terminology varies globally.

1. “Time off” (also called annual leave, holiday, or vacation in some regions) refers to shorter absences like vacation days, sick days, and public holidays—the day-to-day time away that you plan or use as needed.
2. “Leave” (sometimes called extended leave or leave of absence) refers to longer, approved absences for specific life circumstances such as parental leave or medical leave—these typically require a separate request and approval process.

While the words we use may differ from region to region, the distinction is about duration and purpose: regular time away versus extended, circumstance-specific absences. Both policies are designed to support your wellbeing and work-life balance.

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