Russians can avoid the upcoming six-day work week scheduled from October 27 to November 1 by utilizing options such as paid leave or unpaid time off, though employer coordination is essential. The extended work week is due to the переносом (transfer) of a day off from Saturday, November 1, to Monday, November 3, in observance of National Unity Day.

Valentina Zakharenkova, Deputy Head of the Legal Labor Inspectorate of the Moscow Federation of Trade Unions, clarified that while the work week will be longer, salaries will remain the same, as the day off is simply shifted. Following this extended work period, employees will have a three-day weekend from Sunday, November 2, to Tuesday, November 4, for the National Unity Day holiday.

Zakharenkova emphasized that employees wishing to take leave on dates other than those outlined in their vacation schedule must coordinate with their employer, who retains the right to deny the request. Similarly, obtaining consent is necessary for those seeking unpaid leave.

Certain categories of workers are entitled to mandatory unpaid leave upon request, including working pensioners (up to 14 days annually) and people with disabilities (up to 60 days annually). Additionally, unpaid leave must be granted in instances of childbirth, marriage registration, or the death of close relatives.