Long-term Care Leave: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to access unpaid leave to care for family members facing life-threatening illnesses in the Netherlands.
Long-term Care Leave allows employees to take time off work to care for a family member who is dealing with a life-threatening illness.
Who it's for
This scheme is for employees who need to provide care for a family member who has been diagnosed with a life-threatening illness.
What you get
You are entitled to take unpaid leave. The amount of time you can take is based on your schedule, allowing for up to six times your normal weekly working hours per year.
What it costs you
While there is no direct fee to use this scheme, you must give your employer at least two weeks' notice before the leave begins.
The catch to know
Because this leave is unpaid, it will affect your income. You should check your collective labor agreement (CAO)—which is a contract between employers and unions that sets work conditions—to see if it offers better terms or any pay during this time.
How to apply
- Confirm that your family member's condition meets the criteria for a life-threatening illness.
- Check your employment contract or collective labor agreement for specific company policies.
- Notify your employer at least two weeks before you need to start your leave.