What is Care Leave?
Care leave provides the opportunity to care for a sick relative. There are two variants: short-term care leave (paid, maximum 2 weeks per year) and long-term care leave (unpaid, up to 6 weeks per year).
Summary of Care Leave
| Type | Period | Compensation | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term | Up to 2 weeks/year | 70% salary | Essential care |
| Long-term | Up to 6 weeks/year | No payment | Seriously ill relative |
Short-term Care Leave: Conditions
The following requirements apply to short-term care leave:
- The care for the sick person is necessary.
- You are the only one who can provide this care.
- The sick person is a close relative such as partner, child, parent or housemate.
- This also applies to other relationships such as grandparents, grandchildren, siblings or friends.
Long-term Care Leave: When Applicable?
In which situations?
- Care for a person with a life-threatening condition.
- Essential assistance to a sick or care-needy person.
- Accompaniment in the terminal phase.
- Care for a relative such as child, partner or family member.
How do you apply for care leave?
- Submit a written request to your employer.
- For long-term leave: apply at least 2 weeks in advance.
- Specify for whom the care is, the duration and start date.
- Refusal by the employer is only possible for compelling business reasons.
How is the duration calculated?
The duration of the leave depends on your weekly working hours:
- Short-term: 2x your weekly hours per year.
- Long-term: 6x your weekly hours per year.
- For example: with 20 hours/week, you are entitled to 40 hours of short-term leave.
May I take care leave for a neighbor?
Yes, for short-term leave this is possible for someone with whom you have a social bond.
What if my employer rejects my application?
This is only permitted for compelling business interests. You can file an objection or take legal steps.
Can care leave be combined with working from home?
Consult with your employer; in some cases, a combination is feasible.
Frequently Asked Questions about Care Leave
How do I submit an application for care leave?
An application must be submitted in writing to your employer. For long-term leave, a period of at least 2 weeks applies. Indicate who needs the care, how long and when the leave starts. Refusal is only possible in case of serious business problems.
Can I take leave for an acquaintance or neighbor?
Yes, short-term care leave can be taken for persons with whom you have a social relationship. For long-term leave, this usually applies only to immediate family or housemates.
How is the leave duration determined?
The duration depends on your workweek. Short-term leave is 2x your weekly hours; long-term is 6x your weekly hours. For 30 hours/week, that is for example 60 hours short-term leave.
What if my employer refuses?
Refusal is only permitted for compelling business reasons. You can object or seek legal advice, for example via the Juridisch Loket Westland.
Do I receive full pay during short-term leave?
No, you receive 70% of your salary, with a maximum of 70% of the maximum daily wage (approximately €256 per day in 2024). Employers may sometimes supplement this.