Licença-Maternidade/Paternidade: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Understand the paid maternity and paternity leave benefits available to formal employees in Brazil to help you plan for your growing family.
This scheme provides paid time off from work for new parents to care for their newborn. It is designed to support families during the initial period of a child's life.
Who it's for
This benefit is available to all formal employees. If you are working under a formal employment contract, you qualify for these protections.
What you get
The scheme provides paid leave to ensure parents can focus on their newborn without losing their income. Mothers are entitled to 120 days of paid leave. Fathers are entitled to paid leave that ranges from 5 to 20 days, depending on the specific circumstances.
What it costs you
There is no cost to you to access this benefit. You do not need to pay a fee to the government or the issuing body to receive your paid leave.
The catch to know
While the standard leave periods are set, there is an important exception to be aware of regarding the length of time you can stay home. Companies that participate in the "Empresa Cidadã" program offer extended leave options. If your employer is part of this specific program, you may be eligible for more time away from work than the standard 120 days for mothers or the standard period for fathers. It is worth checking your company's specific policies to see if they offer this extra time.
How to apply
- Confirm your status as a formal employee within the Brazilian labor system.
- Notify your employer regarding your upcoming leave and the expected start date.
- Verify with your human resources department if your company participates in the "Empresa Cidadã" program for extended leave.
- Follow the specific administrative procedures and documentation requirements set by your employer to finalize your request.