Paid Parental Leave in Westland
From 2022, parents in Westland can claim 9 weeks of paid parental leave, during which they receive 70% of their salary. This is in addition to the existing 26 weeks of unpaid leave. The aim is to give parents more time to develop a strong bond with their child.
Summary of Parental Leave
| Type of Leave | Duration | Compensation | Uptake until |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paid (WIEG) | 9 weeks | 70% via UWV | Child 1 year old |
| Unpaid | 17 weeks (remaining) | No compensation | Child 8 years old |
| Total | 26 weeks | - | - |
Conditions for Paid Leave
- Be employed (also with temporary contracts)
- Your child is younger than 1 year
- Take at least 1 week consecutively
- Submit application via employer to the UWV
Amount of the Benefit
70% of your Daily Wage
You receive 70% of your daily wage, with a maximum of €274.44 per day. This is lower than your normal income, but an improvement compared to unpaid leave. Some employers in Westland top this up to full pay.
Flexible Uptake
The 9 weeks of paid leave can be taken in various ways:
- In blocks of at least 1 week
- Spread over the child's first year
- For example: 2x4 weeks and 1x1 week
- Coordination with the employer is required
Birth Leave for Partners
Partners in Westland are entitled to:
- 1 week birth leave: Immediately after birth, fully paid
- 5 weeks additional leave: Within 6 months, 70% via UWV
- Parental leave: 9 weeks paid
Does this apply to adoptive and foster parents?
Yes, adoptive and foster parents in Westland have the same rights to paid parental leave.
Can my employer refuse the leave?
No, but you must submit the application at least 2 months in advance. The exact timing of uptake can be adjusted in consultation.
Do I continue to accrue pension during leave?
This varies per pension scheme. Often, accrual is lower or absent during leave periods.
Frequently Asked Questions about Parental Leave in Westland
How do I apply for paid parental leave?
In Westland, you must apply for the leave via your employer, who forwards it to the UWV. This must be done no later than 2 months in advance. The 9 weeks can be taken flexibly within your child's first year, provided you take at least 1 week consecutively.
Do I receive my full salary during paid leave?
No, you receive 70% of your daily wage via the UWV, with a maximum of €274.44 per day. Some employers in Westland top this up to 100%, depending on your contract or collective agreement.
Can I combine this leave with other leave?
Yes, paid parental leave can be combined with birth leave (1 week fully paid) and additional leave (5 weeks 70%). The unpaid portion (17 weeks) can be taken later until your child is 8 years old.
What if my child is born earlier or later?
The 1-year period for paid leave starts from the actual birth date. In case of premature birth, you can start earlier; for a later birth, the period shifts. Inform your employer and the UWV immediately of any changes.
Does this also apply with a temporary contract?
Yes, even with a temporary contract, you are entitled to paid parental leave, as long as your contract is active during the application and uptake. Plan the uptake within the contract duration.