Partner Leave: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Understand how partners of birthing parents in the Netherlands can access paid leave to support their families during the first months of a child's life.
Partner Leave provides essential time off for partners of birthing parents, allowing them to be present for the arrival of a new child and support their family during the initial transition into parenthood.
Who it's for
This scheme is specifically designed for the partners of the person giving birth. It is intended to ensure that the partner can take a meaningful role in the household and support the birthing parent during the first months of a child's life.
What you get
The benefit is split into two distinct parts to provide both immediate and extended support. First, you are entitled to one week of leave that is paid at your full salary. Following this initial week, you are also eligible for an additional five weeks of leave. During this second five-week period, you will receive 70% of your regular pay to help manage the transition while still receiving financial support.
What it costs you
Using this scheme requires careful planning regarding your schedule. You must ensure that you take your leave within the first 6 months following the birth of the child. If you do not use the leave within this specific window, you may lose the opportunity to access these benefits.
The catch to know
While you are entitled to this time off, there is a specific administrative step you must manage yourself. The five weeks of extra leave, which are paid at 70%, must be applied for directly through your employer rather than through a central government body.
How to apply
- Confirm your status as a partner of the birthing parent.
- Coordinate with your employer to decide on the specific timing for your leave.
- Ensure all leave is scheduled to take place within the 6-month window following the birth.
- Formally submit your application for the 5 weeks of leave to your employer.