Birth leave (geboorteverlof) is the statutory leave for the partner of the mother after a child is born. Under article 4:2 of the Work and Care Act (Wet arbeid en zorg), the partner receives leave equal to one working week on full pay. Article 4:2a adds up to 5 weeks of additional birth leave (aanvullend geboorteverlof).
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Who is entitled to birth leave?
An employee who is the spouse or registered partner of the mother, lives with her, or acknowledges the child is entitled. The employer cannot refuse the leave. The mother herself has separate pregnancy and maternity leave.
How long is birth leave and when must you take it?
The first part equals your weekly working hours, for example 30 hours if you work 5 days of 6 hours. Your employer pays your full salary. You must take it within 4 weeks after the birth.
After that, you may take up to 5 times your weekly hours as additional leave, within 6 months of the birth. You must notify your employer in writing at least 4 weeks in advance. During additional leave, the employee insurance agency (UWV) pays a benefit of 70% of your daily wage, capped at 70% of the maximum daily wage. Your employer applies for it.
How does birth leave relate to parental leave?
Parental leave (ouderschapsverlof) is a separate right of 26 times your weekly hours per child. Of these, 9 weeks are paid by the UWV at 70% of the daily wage if taken in the child’s first year. Combined, a partner can receive up to 15 weeks of paid leave in that first year.
Frequently asked questions
Can additional leave be spread out?
Yes, within the 6-month period. Agree the exact schedule with your employer.
Do I accrue holiday during birth leave?
Statutory holiday continues to accrue. Extra days depend on your contract or cao.
Related terms
For advice on leave and employment conditions, see our employment law page. Book a free introductory meeting.
