Paid Parental Leave in Zoetermeer
From 2022, parents in Zoetermeer are entitled to 9 weeks of paid parental leave, with 70% of the salary paid. This is in addition to the 26 weeks of unpaid leave. This leave helps strengthen the 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 old |
| Unpaid | 17 weeks (remaining) | None | Child 8 years old |
| Total | 26 weeks | - | - |
Conditions for Paid Leave
- Be employed (also with temporary contract)
- Your 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 normal salary, but higher than unpaid leave. Some employers in Zoetermeer top it up to 100%.
Flexible Uptake
The 9 weeks of paid leave can be arranged at your own discretion:
- In blocks of at least 1 week
- Spread over the first year of your child
- For example: 2x4 weeks and 1x1 week
- Coordination with your employer is required
Birth Leave for Partners
Partners in Zoetermeer are entitled to:
- 1 week birth leave: Immediately after birth, fully paid
- 5 weeks additional leave: Within 6 months, 70% via UWV
- Parental Leave: 9 weeks paid
Does this apply to adoptive parents?
Yes, in Zoetermeer, adoptive and foster parents have the same rights to leave.
Can an employer refuse leave?
No, but you must submit the application at least 2 months in advance. The exact timing can be adjusted in consultation.
Do I accrue pension during leave?
This varies per pension scheme. Often the accrual is lower or absent altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions about Parental Leave in Zoetermeer
How do I apply for paid parental leave?
In Zoetermeer, 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 you can spread the 9 weeks over the first year. Consult your employer in good time for proper planning.
Do I get my full salary during this leave?
No, you receive 70% of your daily wage via the UWV (maximum €274.44 per day). Some employers in Zoetermeer top it up to 100%, but this is not mandatory. Check your contract or collective agreement.
Can I combine this leave with other leave?
Yes, you can combine it with birth leave (1 week fully paid) and additional birth leave (5 weeks at 70%). In addition, you can later take the 17 weeks of unpaid leave 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 start earlier; in case of later birth, the period shifts. Inform your employer and the UWV immediately 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, as long as your contract runs during the application and uptake. Ensure you take the leave before the end of your contract.
Need extra help? Contact the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer for advice on your rights. For legal matters, you can go to the Rechtbank Den Haag (district).