What does the WAZO entail?
The WAZO (Work and Care Act) provides pregnant female employees in Utrecht and throughout the Netherlands with the right to maternity and childbirth leave with a corresponding benefit. This leave comprises at least 16 weeks with retention of salary.
Length of the Leave
| Phase | Duration | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Maternity leave | 4-6 weeks | Before the due date |
| Childbirth leave | 10-12 weeks | Immediately after birth |
| Total | At least 16 weeks | Flexible to schedule |
Start of the Leave
Choice in Start Date
You determine yourself when your leave begins:
- Between 6 weeks before the due date
- Up to at most 4 weeks before the due date
- Unused weeks before birth are added after birth
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 the start of leave)
- The employer submits the application to the UWV
- Attach a statement from your doctor or midwife
- The UWV pays out to the employer or directly to you
Special Circumstances
- Multiple pregnancy: Extra 4 weeks of leave (total 20 weeks)
- Illness during leave: Leave continues to run
- Premature birth: Leave is adjusted and extended
- Hospital admission of baby: Possibility of additional leave
Am I self-employed?
Self-employed persons in Utrecht can also apply for a WAZO benefit. You do this directly with the UWV.
Is spreading the leave possible?
Yes, after the first 6 weeks of childbirth leave, you can spread the remaining weeks over a period of 30 weeks.
Are vacation days accrued?
Yes, during your maternity and childbirth leave, you accrue vacation days as usual.
Frequently Asked Questions about WAZO in Utrecht
How long does the total leave last?
The leave lasts at least 16 weeks: 4-6 weeks before birth and 10-12 weeks after. For multiples, you receive 20 weeks in total. The distribution depends on your choice, but the total remains the same.
When must I notify my employer?
This must be at the latest 3 weeks before the start of your leave. This gives your employer time to arrange the benefit via the UWV. Attach a statement from your doctor or midwife.
What do I receive during my leave?
You receive 100% of your daily wage, with a maximum of €274.44 per day in 2024. This is paid via your employer or the UWV. Self-employed persons apply for this themselves.
What if my baby is born early?
In case of premature birth, your leave is extended. Weeks not taken before birth are added to the period after birth, so you retain at least 16 weeks of leave.
Can I schedule my leave flexibly?
Yes, after the first 6 weeks of childbirth leave, you can spread the remaining weeks over a maximum period of 30 weeks. Discuss this thoroughly with your employer.
Legal Support in Utrecht
For questions or disputes regarding WAZO, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55. In addition, the District Court of Midden-Nederland (Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1) handles matters related to employment law and leave regulations.