Additional Birth Leave in Rijswijk: Your Rights as a Partner
In Rijswijk, as the working partner of a mother who has given birth or a parent in a multi-parent family, you are entitled to additional birth leave. This allows you to take five extra weeks off after the birth of your child, in addition to the basic birth leave. The purpose is to promote bonding with your child and provide support during the postpartum period. Payment is provided through a UWV benefit, ensuring financial support. For local advice in Rijswijk, contact Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.
What Does Additional Birth Leave Mean for Parents in Rijswijk?
Additional birth leave falls under parental leave and is specifically intended for partners after the birth. It follows the basic birth leave of one workweek, which is fully paid by your employer. The additional leave comprises up to five workweeks and must be taken within six months of the birth. This arrangement, introduced to more fairly divide care between parents in the early baby phase, is also relevant for families in Rijswijk who may face local working conditions.
In the Rijswijk context, this means fathers or non-birthing parents in diverse couples, such as lesbian pairs, can make time for their family. You can schedule the leave flexibly in parts, as long as the total does not exceed five weeks. Note: this leave only applies if you also qualify for the basic portion. For questions about applicability in your situation, contact Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk for free guidance.
Legal Basis for Additional Birth Leave
The additional birth leave scheme is laid down in the Work and Care Act (Work and Care Act), specifically Article 7:634a of Book 7 of the Dutch Civil Code (DCC). This act has been in place since 2019, and from 1 August 2022, the additional leave has been paid via UWV at 70% of your maximum daily wage (capped at 70% of the maximum wage for payroll tax purposes). Previously unpaid, it now offers greater security for working parents in cities like Rijswijk.
The law protects your position as a parent: employers in Rijswijk may not refuse a timely request (at least two months in advance, or earlier in urgent cases). Your job and terms remain intact, and you return to a comparable position after the leave. In case of disputes, seek assistance from the District Court of Rijswijk or Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.
Rights and Obligations for Additional Birth Leave in Rijswijk
Your Rights
- Leave Entitlement: Five extra workweeks, plus one week of basic leave, for a total of six weeks of care for your child.
- Financial Support: UWV pays 70% of your salary based on the maximum daily wage; your employer does not contribute.
- Dismissal Protection: Protection applies during and shortly after the leave, except in extreme cases such as business closure.
- Scheduling Flexibility: Take it in blocks or spread out, within six months after birth.
Your Obligations
- Request to Employer: Submit a written request specifying the birth date and period.
- UWV Application: File with UWV within two months of birth, including employer statement.
- Return to Work: Report back to your Rijswijk employer at the end and resume duties.
- Provide Updates: Inform about any changes in scheduling, such as bringing it forward.
Failure to follow these steps may result in loss of benefits or tension with your employer. Check the UWV website for details, and for Rijswijk-specific advice: Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.
Practical Examples of Additional Birth Leave in Rijswijk
Example: Your child is born on 1 January at Delft Hospital, near Rijswijk. You take basic leave from 1-7 January. Then additional leave from 1 February to 4 March (five weeks). Apply to your employer and UWV; you receive approximately €200 per day, or €1,400 weekly, depending on income. After registering with the Municipality of Rijswijk, you can focus on your family.
In a Rijswijk multi-parent family with two fathers through surrogacy, the non-surrogate parent can claim the full partner leave, including extra weeks. This highlights the inclusive nature of the law for all types of households.
For self-employed in Rijswijk: No employer, but UWV benefits may be available if you meet employee criteria. The focus is on employees, so consider local networks via the Municipality of Rijswijk for support.
Comparison of Basic and Additional Birth Leave
| Aspect | Basic Birth Leave | Additional Birth Leave |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 workweek | 5 workweeks |
| Taking Period | Within 4 weeks of birth | Within 6 months of birth |
| Payment | 100% by employer | 70% via UWV benefit |
| Application Deadline | At least 2 months | At least 2 months |
| Flexibility | In one go | In parts possible |
The table shows how basic leave is quick and immediate, while additional leave in Rijswijk provides more breathing room for extended care.
Frequently Asked Questions about Additional Birth Leave in Rijswijk
Can I combine additional birth leave with other types of leave?
Yes, you can combine it with the mother's maternity leave or adoption leave. It may not overlap with basic birth leave but complements it. For cases in Rijswijk: Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk assists with planning.