Paid Parental Leave in Leiden
From 2022, parents in Leiden can claim 9 weeks of paid parental leave, with 70% of the salary being paid out. This supplements the 26 weeks of unpaid leave and helps parents develop a strong bond with their child.
Summary of Parental Leave
| Type of Leave | Duration | Compensation | Until Child is |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paid (WIEG) | 9 weeks | 70% via UWV | 1 year old |
| Unpaid | 17 weeks (remaining) | No compensation | 8 years old |
| Total | 26 weeks | - | - |
Conditions for Paid Leave
- Be employed (also with a temporary contract)
- Your child is younger than 1 year
- Take leave for at least 1 consecutive week
- Submit application via employer to the UWV
Amount of the Benefit
70% of your Daily Wage
The benefit amounts to 70% of your daily wage, with a maximum of €274.44 per day. This is lower than your regular income, but higher than unpaid leave. Some employers in Leiden top this up to 100% of your salary.
Flexible Taking of Leave
The 9 weeks of paid leave can be taken in various ways:
- In blocks of at least 1 week
- Spread over the first year of your child's life
- For example: 3 periods of 3 weeks or 9 separate weeks
- Coordination with the employer is required
Birth Leave for Partners
Partners in Leiden are entitled to:
- 1 week birth leave: Immediately after birth, fully paid (100%)
- 5 weeks additional leave: Within 6 months, 70% via UWV
- Parental Leave: In addition, 9 weeks of paid leave
Does this apply to adoptive and foster parents?
Yes, in Leiden, adoptive and foster parents have the same rights to paid parental leave.
Can an employer refuse the leave?
No, an employer may not refuse the leave, provided you apply at least 2 months in advance. The exact period can be adjusted in consultation.
Do I continue to accrue pension during leave?
This varies per pension scheme. In many cases, the accrual is limited or completely stopped during paid leave.
Frequently Asked Questions about Parental Leave in Leiden
How do I apply for paid parental leave?
In Leiden, you must apply for the leave via your employer, who forwards the application to the UWV. Ensure you do this at least 2 months in advance. The leave must be taken in blocks of at least 1 week, but can be flexibly distributed over the first year. Consult your employer in good time.
Do I receive my full salary during paid leave?
No, you receive 70% of your daily wage via the UWV, with a maximum of €274.44 per day. Some employers in Leiden top this up to 100%, depending on your contract or collective agreement. The benefit is paid out monthly.
Can I combine paid leave with other leave?
Yes, you can combine it with birth leave (1 week fully paid) and additional birth leave (5 weeks with 70% benefit). In addition, you can take the 17 weeks of unpaid parental leave until your child is 8 years old. Coordinate this with your employer.
What if my child is born earlier or later?
The 1-year period for paid leave starts from the actual birth date. In case of premature birth, you can start earlier; in case of later birth, the term shifts. Inform your employer and the UWV immediately of any changes.
Am I entitled to leave with a temporary contract?
Yes, even with a temporary contract, you are entitled to paid parental leave, as long as your contract is active during the application and taking of the leave. Ensure you take the leave within the contract period. In case of uncertainty, contact the Juridisch Loket Leiden at Stationsweg 46.
Legal Support in Leiden
For questions or disputes regarding paid parental leave, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. In addition, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location, handles cases relating to labour law and leave regulations.