Paid Parental Leave in Utrecht
From 2022, parents in Utrecht can make use of 9 weeks of paid parental leave, with 70% of the salary being paid out. This is in addition to the 26 weeks of unpaid leave and is intended to develop a strong bond with your child.
Summary of Parental Leave
| Type of Leave | Duration | Compensation | Uptake until |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paid (WIEG) | 9 weeks | 70% via UWV | Child 1 year |
| Unpaid | 17 weeks (remaining) | None | Child 8 years |
| Total | 26 weeks | - | - |
Conditions for Paid Leave
- Be employed (also with temporary contract)
- Child is younger than 1 year
- Take at least 1 week consecutively
- Submit application via employer to UWV
Amount of the Benefit
70% of your Daily Wage
You receive 70% of your daily wage, with a maximum of €274.44 per day. This is lower than your full income, but higher than unpaid leave (€0). Some employers in Utrecht top this up to 100%.
Flexible Uptake Options
The 9 weeks of paid leave can be taken in various ways:
- In blocks of at least 1 week
- Spread over the first year of your child's life
- For example: 2x4 weeks and 1x1 week
- Coordinate with your employer
Birth Leave for Partners
Partners in Utrecht are entitled to:
- 1 week birth leave: Immediately after birth, fully paid (100%)
- 5 weeks additional leave: Within 6 months, 70% via UWV
- Parental Leave: In addition, 9 weeks paid
Does this apply to adoptive and foster parents?
Yes, in Utrecht adoptive and foster parents have the same rights to paid parental leave.
Can an employer in Utrecht refuse leave?
No, but you must submit the application at least 2 months in advance. The timing can be adjusted in consultation.
Do I continue to accrue pension during leave?
This varies per scheme. Often the accrual is reduced or stopped during leave. Inquire with your pension fund.
Frequently Asked Questions about Parental Leave in Utrecht
How do I apply for paid parental leave?
In Utrecht, you apply for this leave via your employer, who forwards it to the UWV. Do this at least 2 months in advance. You must take at least 1 week consecutively, but the 9 weeks can be flexibly distributed over the first year. Consult your employer in good time.
Do I receive my full salary during this leave?
No, you receive 70% of your daily wage via the UWV, with a maximum of €274.44 per day. Some employers in Utrecht top this up to 100%, but it is not mandatory. Check your employment contract or collective agreement.
Can I combine this leave with other leave?
Yes, you can combine paid parental leave with, for example, birth leave (1 week fully paid) and additional birth leave (5 weeks 70%). The unpaid portion (17 weeks) can be taken later until your child is 8 years old.
What if my child is born earlier or later?
The 1-year period for paid leave starts from the actual birth date. In case of premature birth, you can start earlier; for a later birth, the period shifts. Inform your employer and the UWV of any changes.
Am I entitled to leave with a temporary contract?
Yes, even with a temporary contract you are entitled to paid parental leave in Utrecht, as long as your contract runs during the application and uptake. Plan the leave within the contract period.
Legal Support in Utrecht
For questions or disputes about parental leave, you can go to:
- Rechtbank Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht