The WIEG Scheme: Paid Parental Leave in Utrecht
The WIEG scheme (Paid Parental Leave Act) provides working parents in Utrecht with nine weeks of paid leave upon the birth of their child. This is in addition to the standard birth leave and is available to both parents. The benefit amounts to 70% of your daily wage (capped at a maximum) and is administered by the UWV. Since 1 August 2022, this scheme has enabled Utrecht parents to enjoy more quality time with their newborn while receiving financial support.
What Does the WIEG Scheme Mean for Residents of Utrecht?
In Utrecht, the WIEG scheme supplements the national leave system with paid parental leave. Previously, fathers and partners had only unpaid parental leave or a short paid birth leave of 5 days. Now, both parents in the Domstad are entitled to nine consecutive weeks of leave, part of which is paid. This must be taken within one year of the birth, in consultation with your employer and scheduled consecutively.
The legislation promotes a fair division of care and work responsibilities for families in Utrecht. It primarily targets the mother's partner, but mothers can also use it after their maternity and birth leave.
Legal Basis of the WIEG Scheme
The WIEG scheme is enshrined in the Paid Parental Leave Act, which amends the Work and Care Act (WAZO). Relevant provisions include:
- Article 1:1(1) WAZO: Defines parental leave.
- Article 2:1 WAZO: Sets the duration at nine weeks.
- Article 6:1 WAZO: Governs the UWV benefit.
This complies with EU Directive 2019/1158 on work-life balance. The maximum daily wage for the benefit follows the Sickness Benefits Act (in 2024: € 274.44 per day), which is relevant for many employees in Utrecht.
Eligibility for WIEG Leave in Utrecht
Want to use the WIEG scheme as a resident of Utrecht? Check these requirements:
- You are an employee (including on-call workers with ≥26 weeks of service).
- Your child was born on or after 1 August 2022.
- Leave must be taken within 52 weeks of birth.
- Notify your employer at least 4 weeks in advance.
- Apply for the UWV benefit before the first day of leave.
Self-employed workers (ZZP'ers) in Utrecht are not eligible for the benefit but have leave rights with a client.
Rights and Obligations under WIEG
Rights for Employees
- Nine weeks of part-time leave (up to 50% of normal hours).
- Protection against dismissal during and after leave.
- UWV benefit: 70% of social insurance daily wage (max. € 274.44 in 2024).
Obligations
- Must be taken consecutively.
- Inform employer well in advance.
- Provide employer with UWV decision.
Practical Examples for Parents in Utrecht
Example 1: Utrecht father Mark (40 hours/week) welcomes his child on 1 September 2023. He takes WIEG leave from 2 January to 26 February 2024. With a daily wage of € 200, he receives 45 days x € 140 (70%), totaling € 6,300 gross. Employer may top up.
Example 2: Mother Lisa from Utrecht takes 9 weeks of WIEG after 12 weeks of maternity leave. Working 24 hours/week, she reduces to 50% during leave.
Comparison with Other Leave Entitlements
| Scheme | Duration | Paid | For Whom | Eligible Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birth Leave | 1 week (5 days) | 100% employer salary | Partner | Within 4 weeks of birth |
| WIEG Scheme | 9 weeks | 70% UWV (max daily wage) | Both parents | Within 1 year |
| Parental Leave | 26 weeks per parent | Unpaid | Both parents | Until child is 8 |
| Adoption Leave | 6 weeks | 100% UWV | Both parents | Within 1 year of adoption |
Applying for WIEG Leave: Step-by-Step Guide
- Notify employer (at least 4 weeks in advance).
- Submit UWV application via UWV.nl using DigiD (ideally 8 weeks before start).
- Send UWV decision to employer.
- Start leave and receive weekly benefit.
Perhaps Also of Interest
Read more about Paid Parental Leave (WIEG) Utrecht, Maternity Leave or Birth Leave.
Frequently Asked Questions about WIEG in Utrecht
Can I spread out WIEG weeks?
No, it must be taken consecutively. Part-time (up to 50%) is allowed.
What if my employer refuses?
No, they cannot if notified in time. In case of dispute: Utrecht District Court or Labour Inspectorate. Free advice from Het Juridisch Loket Utrecht.
WIEG for adoption?
No, only for birth. Adoption leave is separate.
Salary top-up?
Not mandatory, but often in collective agreements. Check your contract.
Tips for Parents in Utrecht
- Plan early with your employer to avoid conflicts.
- Consult Het Juridisch Loket Utrecht for personalized advice.
- Check with Utrecht Municipality for local family support.