Duration of Maternity Leave in Den Haag
Maternity leave provides working mothers in Den Haag with rest and recovery immediately after birth. The standard period is 10 weeks, as regulated by the Work and Care Act (WAZO). This may be adjusted in cases of premature birth or complications. Mothers in Den Haag can obtain free advice on their rights from the Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
What does maternity leave entail in Den Haag?
Maternity leave follows pregnancy leave and focuses on physical and emotional recovery. It applies to employees and certain self-employed individuals via voluntary insurance. Combined with pregnancy leave, it totals up to 16 weeks. This article focuses on the duration, as a supplement to WAZO leave rules. In Den Haag, the Gemeente Den Haag offers local support for young families.
Legal rules
The duration of maternity leave is set out in the WAZO (articles 3:1-3:8): 10 weeks starting from the day after birth. Specific groups fall under UAO or Wajong. Benefits are administered by the UWV Employee Insurance Agency. Dismissal protection applies (article 7:670(1) Dutch Civil Code). Self-employed: voluntary AOW self-employed insurance. For disputes: Rechtbank Den Haag.
Calculating the duration
Standard 10 consecutive weeks after birth, based on the expected due date (EDD), but starting from the actual birth date.
- On time: 10 weeks from the day after birth.
- Premature birth: Extended by days before EDD.
- Late birth: 10 weeks maternity leave, shortened pregnancy leave.
The employer and UWV use the midwife's certificate.
Exceptions in practice
Adjustments for special situations:
- Premature birth: If 2 weeks early: +14 days (total 12 weeks).
- Complications: Conversion to calamity or sick leave (article 3:9 WAZO).
- Multiple births: No extra leave, but partner birth leave.
- Partner: 5 days paid birth leave.
Comparison of pregnancy and maternity leave
| Aspect | Pregnancy leave | Maternity leave |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4-6 weeks before EDD | 10 weeks after birth |
| Start | 6 weeks before EDD (mandatory last 4) | Day after birth |
| Extension | N/A for later birth | Yes, for premature birth |
| Benefit | 100% pay (max. daily WW rate) | Same |
Rights and obligations
Rights:
- UWV benefit or continued pay (100% daily rate, max. €266.63/day in 2024).
- Dismissal protection.
- Breastfeeding time after leave.
Obligations:
- Report pregnancy/EDD to employer 12 weeks in advance.
- Submit medical certificate to UWV within 4 weeks.
- Take full leave; interruptions only with permission.
Examples from Den Haag practice
Example 1: Maria gives birth on EDD (June 1). Leave: June 2–August 11 (10 weeks), UWV benefit.
Example 2: Lisa gives birth 3 weeks early (May 10). Leave: May 11–August 23 (13 weeks).
Example 3: After cesarean, Fatima extends with sick leave.
Frequently asked questions
Can maternity leave be shorter in Den Haag?
No, full uptake is mandatory. Only convertible for medical reasons. Check with Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Birth after EDD?
Always 10 weeks from actual date; pregnancy leave shortened.
Self-employed in Den Haag?
Voluntarily insured with UWV: 10 weeks benefit.
Applying for benefit?
Within 4 weeks via uwv.nl with certificate.
Tips for mothers in Den Haag
Avoid issues:
- Notify employer in time.
- Consult Juridisch Loket Den Haag for personal advice.
- Check local Gemeente Den Haag schemes for family support.
- Archive all documents for UWV or Rechtbank Den Haag.