Emergency Leave and Short Absence Leave
In the event of unexpected emergencies, you are entitled to emergency leave with full continuation of pay.
Emergency Leave
You may take leave in cases of urgent, unexpected circumstances that make working impossible:
- Acute illness of a child or partner
- Death of an immediate family member
- Presence at the birth of a partner
- Damage from a burst water pipe
- Medical appointment that cannot be scheduled outside working hours
Duration of the Leave
The leave lasts as long as necessary to immediately address the situation, often a few hours up to a maximum of a couple of days.
Continuation of Pay
During emergency leave, you receive your full salary without any deduction.
Short Absence Leave
For short absences, such as a visit to the general practitioner that cannot be scheduled otherwise, you are entitled to leave.
Refusal Not Permitted
An employer may not refuse emergency leave if the circumstances justify it.
Statutory basis: Article 4:1 Work and Care Act
Local Information Leiden
For legal support, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about Leave
When can I apply for emergency leave?
You are entitled to this leave in urgent, unexpected situations such as illness of a family member, death of a close relative or a home emergency. Your employer must honour this if the situation requires it.
How long may emergency leave last?
The leave lasts as long as necessary for the initial response, often a few hours to a couple of days, with full pay continued.
What distinguishes emergency leave from short absence leave?
Emergency leave is for acute emergencies, while short absence leave is intended for short, unavoidable absences such as a doctor's visit.
Can an employer refuse this leave?
No, this is not permitted under Article 4:1 of the Work and Care Act, provided the situation is urgent.
Do I need to provide proof for emergency leave?
Immediate proof is not always required, but an employer may request an explanation afterwards, such as a medical certificate.