If your partner has given birth, you may take 1 working week of birth leave if you are in paid employment. You can apply for birth leave from your employer. In addition, you can apply for extended birth leave.
Duration of birth leave and continued payment of salary
As a partner, you may take 1 working week of birth leave if you are in paid employment. Your employer will continue to pay 100% of your salary.
Applying for birth leave
You must take this leave within 4 weeks of the birth of your child. You must apply for birth leave from your employer in advance or as soon as possible after the birth. You must also specify the days on which you want to take birth leave. Your employer cannot refuse this leave.
You must submit your request by letter or email. If your child stays in hospital for less than a week, you must stick to the 4-week deadline.
Getting extended birth leave as a partner
As a partner, you may also get extended birth leave. This leave is for a maximum of 5 working weeks.
More information about this topic
As a self-employed person, you do not get birth leave. Birth leave is a right for employees in paid employment. As a self-employed person, you determine your own working hours and leave. You must arrange a replacement income during your leave yourself.
Laws and regulations (in Dutch)
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Last updated 25 June 2026