The WIEG Scheme: Paid Parental Leave for Parents in Rijswijk
The WIEG scheme (Paid Parental Leave Act) provides working parents in Rijswijk with nine weeks of paid leave upon the birth of their baby. This is in addition to the standard birth leave and is available to both parents. The compensation is 70% of your daily wage (with a maximum), paid out by the UWV. Since 1 August 2022, this law has helped Rijswijk families spend more quality time with their newborn.
What Does the WIEG Scheme Mean for Rijswijk Residents?
This WIEG scheme expands the Dutch leave system with paid parental leave. Previously, fathers and partners only had unpaid parental leave or a short paid birth leave of five days. Now both parents may take nine consecutive weeks of leave, largely paid. This must be taken within one year of the birth, in consultation with your employer in Rijswijk and scheduled consecutively.
The law promotes a fair division of work and care responsibilities in Rijswijk households. It focuses primarily on the mother's partner, but mothers can also use it after their maternity leave.
Legal Basis of the WIEG Scheme
The WIEG scheme is set out in the Paid Parental Leave Act, which amends the Work and Care Act (WAZO). Relevant provisions:
- Article 1:1, subsection 1 WAZO: Defines parental leave.
- Article 2:1 WAZO: Establishes the nine-week period.
- Article 6:1 WAZO: Regulates the UWV benefit.
It implements EU Directive 2019/1158 on work-life balance. The maximum daily wage for 2024 is € 274.44, linked to the Sickness Benefits Act.
Eligibility Conditions for WIEG Leave in Rijswijk
To qualify for the WIEG scheme, you must meet these requirements:
- You are employed (including on-call workers with ≥26 weeks of service).
- Birth on or after 1 August 2022.
- Taken within 52 weeks of birth.
- Notify employer at least 4 weeks in advance.
- Apply to UWV before leave starts for the benefit.
Self-employed individuals in Rijswijk are not entitled to UWV benefits but do have leave rights with clients.
Rights and Obligations under WIEG
Rights as an Employee in Rijswijk
- 9 weeks of part-time leave (up to 50% of normal hours).
- Protection against dismissal around the leave period.
- UWV benefit: 70% of social insurance daily wage (max. € 274.44 in 2024).
Obligations
- Take leave consecutively.
- Inform employer in time.
- Share UWV decision with employer.
Practical Examples for Rijswijk
Example 1: Rijswijk resident Mark (40 hours/week) has a child on 1 September 2023. He takes WIEG leave from 2 January to 26 February 2024. With a € 200 daily wage, he receives 45 days x 70% = € 140/day, total € 6,300 gross. Employer may top up.
Example 2: Mother Lisa from Rijswijk takes 9 weeks of WIEG after 12 weeks of maternity leave. With 24 hours/week, she works 50% during leave.
Comparison with Other Leave Entitlements
| Scheme | Duration | Paid | For Whom | Eligible Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birth Leave | 1 week (5 days) | 100% salary by employer | 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
- Inform employer (≥4 weeks in advance).
- Apply for benefit on UWV.nl using DigiD (ideally 8 weeks ahead).
- Send UWV decision to employer.
- Enjoy your leave and weekly benefit.
Perhaps Also of Interest
Read more about Paid Parental Leave (WIEG), Maternity Leave or Birth Leave.
Frequently Asked Questions about WIEG in Rijswijk
Can I spread out WIEG weeks?
No, must be taken consecutively. Part-time up to 50% is possible.
What if my employer refuses my request?
Refusal is not allowed if notified in time. Contact the Rijswijk District Court, Rijswijk Legal Aid Office or Netherlands Labour Authority for assistance.
Does WIEG apply to adoption?
No, only biological birth. Adoption leave is separate.
Salary top-up by employer?
Not mandatory, but often via collective agreement up to 100%. Check your contract.
Tips for Parents in Rijswijk
- Plan early with your employer to avoid conflicts.
- Consult the Rijswijk Legal Aid Office for personal advice.
- Check with the Municipality of Rijswijk for local family support.