Emergency Leave and Short Absence Leave
In unexpected emergency situations, you can claim emergency leave with full pay continuation.
Emergency Leave
You are entitled to leave in urgent, unforeseen circumstances that make working impossible:
- Acute illness of a child or partner
- Death of an immediate family member
- Attendance at the birth of your partner
- Damage from a leak or burst
- Medical appointment that cannot be scheduled outside working hours
Duration of the Leave
The leave lasts as long as necessary to provide initial assistance or a solution, often a few hours to at most a few days.
Pay Continuation
During emergency leave, you receive your full salary without any deduction.
Short Absence Leave
For short absences, such as a visit to the GP that cannot be scheduled otherwise, you are entitled to leave.
Refusal Not Permitted
Your employer may not refuse emergency leave if the situation justifies it.
Statutory basis: Article 4:1 Work and Care Act
Frequently Asked Questions about Leave
When can I apply for emergency leave?
You can apply for this leave in sudden, urgent situations such as illness of a family member, death of a loved one, or a home emergency. It must be a situation requiring immediate action.
How long can I take emergency leave?
The leave lasts as long as needed for the initial solution, often a few hours to a couple of days, and your salary is fully paid.
What distinguishes emergency leave from short absence leave?
Emergency leave is for acute emergencies, while short absence leave is intended for short, unavoidable absences such as a doctor's visit. Both are paid.
Can an employer refuse this leave?
No, an employer may not refuse this leave if the situation is urgent. This is laid down in the Work and Care Act, Article 4:1.
Do I need to provide proof for this leave?
Immediate proof is not always required, but an employer may request an explanation afterwards, such as a medical certificate or other document.