Maternity Leave

In Belgium, expecting mothers who are employed are entitled to maternity leave, adhering to Belgian labor laws. The duration of maternity leave extends up to 15 weeks, providing essential support for mothers during this significant period. This leave is typically compensated, covering a portion of the employee's salary during their absence. There is a mandatory leave period, and in the case of multiple births or complications, additional leave may be granted to ensure proper support.

Employers in Belgium cover the costs of time off for antenatal appointments, showcasing a commitment to supporting expecting mothers throughout their pregnancy journey. Maternity leave can commence 6 weeks before the anticipated childbirth date, allowing flexibility for mothers to prepare for this life-changing event. Moreover, the option to extend maternity leave is available, accommodating situations where the female employee remains unable to work due to pregnancy or childbirth. These provisions align with both local regulations and the commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace for all employees.

Paternity Leave

In Belgium, the partner of an employee who has recently become a parent is entitled to paid leave equivalent to their weekly working hours (5 working days for full-time employment). This paid leave should be utilized within the initial four weeks following childbirth. Additionally, the employee has the right to take "short absence leave" for the actual birth itself.

The employer covers the expenses of birth leave. In the first six months post-birth, there is an extra leave period of 5 weeks for full-time employees ("additional birth leave"). This particular leave is unpaid by the employer. An employee opting for this additional leave qualifies for state benefits, comprising 70% of their last earned salary (capped at 70% of the maximum daily wage), provided by the Belgian social security system.

Parental Leave

In addition to maternal and paternal leave, parents in Belgium with children under the age of 8 have the right to parental leave, calculated at 26 times their weekly working hours for each child. The initial 9 weeks are remunerated, while the subsequent 17 weeks are unpaid. The scheduling of this leave is negotiable and can be distributed over the 8-year period. Parents are entitled to take parental leave for each child.

The initial 9 weeks of parental leave are funded by the government at 70% of the regular salary, capped at 70% of the maximum daily wage. The timing of this leave is flexible, but the total hours must correspond to the employee's full working week. Paid parental leave is applicable only until the child reaches one year of age. Employers have the option to apply for an allowance for the paid parental leave of their employees through the Belgian social security system.

Sick Leave

Employers in Belgium are obligated to provide sick employees with their salary for a duration of 2 years. The wage payment comprises 70% of the last earned salary, ensuring it does not surpass the maximum daily wage. In the first year, the payment includes at least the statutory minimum wage. Typically, employment contracts stipulate that the employer will cover either 70% or 100% of the employee's full salary (uncapped) for the first year of illness and 70% of the employee's salary (with the option for capping) during the second year of illness. Compliance with Belgian labor laws and individual employment contracts is crucial to implementing these provisions effectively.