How long is maternity leave in different countries?

Maternity leave duration varies: UK (52 weeks), France (16 weeks), Germany (14 weeks), Canada (15 weeks), Australia (18 weeks), US (12 weeks unpaid FMLA), Spain (16 weeks), Italy (21 weeks), Sweden (unified parental leave system). Most European countries offer 14-26 weeks.

Is maternity leave paid or unpaid?

Most developed countries offer paid maternity leave, though the amount varies. The UK pays 39 weeks, France pays 16 weeks at 100%, Canada pays 15 weeks at 55%, while the US FMLA provides 12 weeks unpaid (though some states have paid programs).

What is a qualifying week?

A qualifying week is a specific week used to determine eligibility for maternity benefits. In the UK, it's the 15th week before your expected week of childbirth. You must meet employment and earnings requirements by this week to qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay.

Do I need to work a certain amount of time to qualify?

Yes, most countries require you to work for your employer for a minimum period: UK (26 weeks), Canada (600 hours in last 52 weeks), US FMLA (12 months and 1,250 hours), Ireland (26 weeks). Check your country's specific requirements.

Can I extend my maternity leave?

Extension options vary by country and employer policy. Some countries allow additional unpaid leave, while others have specific extension rules. Many employers also offer enhanced maternity benefits beyond statutory minimums.

What happens if my baby is born early or late?

In most countries, your maternity leave entitlement is based on your expected due date, not the actual birth date. Your leave period typically adjusts automatically, but pay calculations remain based on the original expected date.

Is maternity pay taxed?

Yes, maternity pay is typically subject to income tax and national insurance/social security contributions, just like regular salary. The amount shown in calculators is usually before tax deductions.

Can I work during maternity leave?

Rules vary by country. In the UK, you can work up to 10 "keeping in touch" days without losing benefits. Other countries may have different rules - some prohibit work entirely, while others allow part-time work. Check your country's specific regulations.

Maternity Leave Rules by Country - Complete Guide

Comprehensive guide to maternity leave rules worldwide. Learn about leave duration, pay rates, eligibility requirements, and qualifying periods for maternity leave in different countries.

What is Maternity Leave?

Maternity leave is time off work granted to employees before and after childbirth. It allows new mothers to recover from childbirth and bond with their newborns. Maternity leave rules vary significantly by country, with some offering generous paid leave (e.g., 52 weeks in UK, 16 weeks in France) while others offer minimal or unpaid leave (e.g., 12 weeks unpaid in US under FMLA).

Maternity Leave Duration by Country

Maternity leave duration ranges from 12 weeks (US FMLA) to 52 weeks (UK). Most European countries offer 14-26 weeks, while some Nordic countries have even longer periods. The duration typically includes both pre-birth and post-birth periods, with most countries allowing leave to start before the due date.

Maternity Pay Structures

Maternity pay varies by country: some pay a percentage of earnings (90% in UK for first 6 weeks, 55% in Canada, 80% in Ireland), others use fixed rates (£172.48/week in UK after 6 weeks, $882.75/fortnight in Australia), and some offer 100% of salary (France, Germany, Spain). Most countries have maximum weekly pay caps.

Eligibility Requirements

Most countries require employees to work for their employer for a minimum period (qualifying weeks) before becoming eligible for maternity benefits. Common requirements include: 26 weeks in UK, 600 hours in Canada, 12 months in US (FMLA). Many countries also have minimum earnings requirements (e.g., £120/week in UK).

Qualifying Weeks and Periods

The qualifying week is a specific week used to determine eligibility. In the UK, it's the 15th week before the expected week of childbirth. You must meet employment and earnings requirements by this week. Other countries use different qualifying periods - some require continuous employment, others count total hours worked.

Pre-Birth and Post-Birth Leave

Most countries allow maternity leave to start before birth (typically 4-6 weeks before due date) and continue after birth. Some countries have mandatory pre-birth leave periods, while others allow flexibility. Post-birth leave is usually longer and often mandatory for a minimum period to ensure recovery.