New Parental Leave in Rotterdam
The new parental leave provides Rotterdam parents with paid leave of up to 9 weeks in the first year after the birth of their child. Since 1 August 2022, the UWV pays 70% of the daily wage, offering a welcome addition to the existing unpaid parental leave. This supports working parents in Rotterdam, such as those in the port or healthcare sector, in better caring for their newborn.
What is new parental leave?
New parental leave, also known as paid parental leave, is intended for intensive care in the first 12 months after birth or adoption. Unlike traditional parental leave, which is unpaid and can be taken up to the child's 8th year, this focuses on the crucial early period. Both parents in Rotterdam are entitled to 9 consecutive weeks, often directly following maternity or birth leave.
This scheme complements parental leave and promotes a fair work-family balance, ideal for busy Rotterdam families. Employers in the region may not arbitrarily refuse the request.
Legal basis
The basis for the new parental leave is the Paid Parental Leave Act (Stb. 2022, 196), which amends the Labor and Care Delivery Act under the Health Insurance Act (LBIO Act). Relevant articles:
- Article 3:1 LBIO Act: Entitlement to 9 weeks of leave.
- Article 1:1 sub g LBIO Act: Definition of parental leave, including the paid form.
- Article 7:634a CC: Rules on taking leave and possible refusal by employer.
- Article 76 UWV Act: Benefit of 70% daily wage (max. € 274.44 in 2024).
This legislation complies with EU Directive 2019/1158 on work-life balance.
Conditions in Rotterdam
The following requirements apply for new parental leave:
- You are a biological or adoptive parent.
- Leave must be taken within 1 year of birth or adoption.
- At least 1 month of employment with a Rotterdam employer.
- Maximum 9 weeks, consecutive or in half-days.
- Notification at least 4 weeks in advance (from the 4th week of pregnancy for birth).
Self-employed individuals in Rotterdam are not eligible but can take traditional leave.
Application steps
Follow these steps to apply:
- Notify employer: Send a letter specifying dates, duration, and hours. Template available on rijksoverheid.nl.
- UWV benefit: Apply within 2 months of start via uwv.nl. Provide payslip, ID, and proof of relationship to child.
Refusal is only permitted for compelling business reasons, such as peaks in the Rotterdam port. In case of dispute: approach the District Court of Rotterdam.
Comparison of leave types
| Leave type | Duration | Payment | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birth leave (father/partner) | 1 week + 5 weeks | 100% salary | 6 weeks after birth |
| New parental leave | 9 weeks | 70% daily wage (UWV) | 1 year after birth |
| Traditional parental leave | 26 weeks per parent | Unpaid | Up to 8 years |
Rights and obligations
Rights:
- Protection against dismissal (art. 7:670a CC).
- Return to previous position.
- UWV benefit independent of employer.
Obligations:
- Notify on time.
- No additional work during leave.
- Repayment in case of abuse.
Examples from Rotterdam
Example 1: Mother Lisa from Rotterdam-South takes 5 weeks after maternity leave. Father Kevin from Charlois follows with 4 weeks after his birth leave. Both receive UWV support.
Example 2: For twins, double entitlement, but small Rotterdam businesses may require staggering.
Example 3: Employee from Feijenoord notifies late by email; District Court of Rotterdam rules in his favor.
Frequently asked questions
Can I combine it with part-time work?
Yes, in half-days (min. 1 day/week), not full-time. Employer adjusts accordingly.
Employer refusal?
Only for compelling reasons. Approach UWV or District Court of Rotterdam. Keep evidence.
Entitlement for part-time job?
Yes, pro rata. For 20 hours/week: 9 weeks x 20 hours.
For adoptive parents?
Yes, within 1 year of adoption.
Tips for Rotterdam parents
Make optimal use of new parental leave:
- Plan with partner and employer, considering Rotterdam traffic.
- Use the template letter from rijksoverheid.nl.
- Check daily wage with UWV.
- For issues: Juridisch Loket Rotterdam for free advice.