What is Garden Leave?
Garden leave is a paid period after resigning when you remain employed but are asked to stay away from work until your notice period ends.
Key takeaways
- Garden leave is a paid period after resigning when you remain employed but are asked to stay away from work until your notice period ends.
- Garden Leave matters when you read a salary slip, compare job offers, or plan your career.
- Knowing how Garden Leave works helps you make sharper, better-informed job decisions.
Garden Leave — meaning & explanation
Garden leave is an arrangement where, after you resign, the employer continues to pay you and keep you on the books but asks you not to come to work or contact clients for part or all of your notice period.
It is used mainly for senior or sensitive roles, often to protect confidential information or client relationships before you join a competitor. While it is more common in some markets, similar clauses appear in Indian contracts for select roles.
During garden leave you are still bound by your contract, including confidentiality and non-compete terms, even though you are not working. Knowing whether your role carries this clause helps you plan your transition.
Related glossary terms
Notice Period
A notice period is the time between resigning and your last working day, during which you continue working so…
Moonlighting
Moonlighting is working a second job or freelance gig alongside your primary employment, often outside regular…
Employment Bond
An employment bond is an agreement requiring you to serve a minimum period with an employer, often after train…
Relieving Letter
A relieving letter is a document your former employer issues confirming you have completed your notice period…
Counter Offer
A counter offer is a revised proposal made to keep you — from your current employer when you resign, or a new…
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More glossary terms
Garden Leave — FAQs
What does Garden Leave mean?
Garden leave is a paid period after resigning when you remain employed but are asked to stay away from work until your notice period ends.
Why does Garden Leave matter to a jobseeker?
During garden leave you are still bound by your contract, including confidentiality and non-compete terms, even though you are not working. Knowing whether your role carries this clause helps you plan your transition.
Is Garden Leave the same as Gardening leave?
Yes — Garden Leave is also commonly called Gardening leave. Garden leave is a paid period after resigning when you remain employed but are asked to stay away from work until your notice period ends.
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