What does the WAZO entail?
The Work and Care Act (WAZO) entitles pregnant employees in Westland to maternity and childbirth leave with an associated benefit. This leave comprises at least 16 weeks with retention of salary.
Length of the Leave
| Period | Duration | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Maternity leave | 4-6 weeks | Before the due date |
| Childbirth leave | 10-12 weeks | After the birth |
| Total | At least 16 weeks | Flexible to plan |
Start of the Leave
Choice in Start Moment
You determine yourself when your leave begins:
- Between 6 weeks before the due date
- Up to at least 4 weeks before the due date
- Unused weeks before the birth are added to the period thereafter
Amount of the Benefit
- 100% of your daily wage
- Maximum daily wage 2024: €274.44
- Payment is handled via the employer or directly by the UWV
How to Apply
- Inform your employer of your pregnancy (at the latest 3 weeks before leave start)
- Your employer submits the application to the UWV
- Attach a statement from your doctor or midwife
- The UWV pays out to your employer or directly to you
Special Circumstances
- Multiple pregnancy: Extra 4 weeks leave (total 20 weeks)
- Illness during leave: Leave continues to run
- Premature birth: Leave is automatically extended
- Hospital admission of baby: Possibility of extra leave
What if I am a self-employed entrepreneur?
Self-employed persons in Westland can also apply for a WAZO benefit. You do this directly with the UWV.
Is spreading of leave possible?
Yes, after the first 6 mandatory weeks of childbirth leave, you can spread the remaining weeks over a period of 30 weeks.
Accrual of vacation days during leave?
Yes, you continue to accrue vacation days during your maternity and childbirth leave.
Frequently Asked Questions about WAZO in Westland
How long does the maternity and childbirth leave last exactly?
The leave lasts a total of at least 16 weeks: 4 to 6 weeks before the birth and 10 to 12 weeks thereafter. In the case of multiples, you receive 4 extra weeks, bringing the total to 20 weeks.
When must I notify my employer?
You must inform your employer at the latest 3 weeks before the start of your leave, so that the application to the UWV can be submitted in time.
What is the amount of the benefit?
The benefit amounts to 100% of your daily wage, with a maximum of €274.44 per day in 2024. This is paid via your employer or the UWV.
What if my baby is born prematurely?
In the event of a premature birth, your leave is extended so that the total remains at least 16 weeks, regardless of the weeks not taken before the birth.
Can I schedule my childbirth leave flexibly?
Yes, after the first 6 weeks, you can spread the remaining weeks over a maximum period of 30 weeks, in consultation with your employer.