Family leaves
When a baby is born, the parents have the right to take family leave, i.e. pregnancy leave, parental leave and and child-care leave.
Family leave means pregnancy leave, parental leave and child-care leave. You can also take time off for other family reasons. Some family leaves can be partial.
Pregnancy leave starts 30 weekdays before the calculated due date. The employer and employee can agree on delaying the pregnancy leave so that it starts no later than 14 weekdays before the expected birth date.
Parental leave starts after pregnancy leave, and either parent can take the leave. Parental leave must be applied for 1–2 months before the start of the leave.
You can use the payment period calculator on Kela’s website to determine the pregnancy and parental allowance period.
Types of family leave
Maternity leave
Maternity leave is a period of time off from work that begins roughly one month before childbirth.
Paternity leave
Paternity leave is time off from work for a father.
Parental leave
Parental leave begins after maternity leave, and either parent may take the leave.
Child-care leave
Child-care leave gives an employee the right to take a leave from work to care for their child until the child turns three.
Other leave for family reasons
Leave can also be applied for if there is an imperative family-related reason, such as to care for a family member or other close relative.
Contact your shop steward if you are applying for family leave.
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